Knee ligament injuries are a leading cause of pain, swelling, and instability for Houston athletes and active adults. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL) play critical roles in stabilizing the knee during everyday movement and sports.
Understanding how these ligaments work, how injuries occur, and when to seek medical care can help prevent long-term knee instability and support a safer, more effective recovery.
What the ACL and MCL Do
The knee is supported by several ligaments that work together to control movement and maintain stability.
- The ACL helps stabilize the knee during pivoting, cutting, jumping, and sudden changes in direction. It prevents the shinbone (tibia) from sliding forward relative to the thighbone (femur) and helps control rotational movement.
- The MCL supports the inner (medial) side of the knee and protects against inward forces between the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia).
Together, the ACL and MCL allow the knee to move safely during activities such as running, pickleball, basketball, soccer, and high-intensity fitness training.
Common Causes of ACL and MCL Injuries
ACL and MCL injuries often occur during activities that place sudden stress on the knee, including:
- Pivoting, jumping, or landing awkwardly during sports
- Recreational leagues and high-intensity fitness programs
- Slips or falls on uneven or wet surfaces
- Sudden changes in direction or speed
While athletes are commonly affected, these injuries also occur in active adults during everyday activities.
Symptoms of ACL vs. MCL Injuries
Although ACL and MCL injuries can happen together, their symptoms often differ.
ACL Injury Symptoms
- A sudden “pop” felt or heard at the time of injury
- Rapid swelling within hours
- Knee instability or a feeling that the knee may give way
- Difficulty pivoting, cutting, or changing direction
MCL Injury Symptoms
- Pain along the inner side of the knee
- Localized swelling and tenderness
- Instability with side-to-side movement
- Pain that worsens with inward stress on the knee
Because symptoms can overlap, proper evaluation is important to identify the exact injury.
When to See a Knee Specialist
You should seek orthopedic evaluation if you experience:
- Knee instability or repeated episodes of giving way
- Swelling that lasts more than 48–72 hours
- Locking, catching, or clicking sensations
- Difficulty fully straightening or bending the knee
Early evaluation helps prevent worsening instability and identifies combined injuries involving multiple ligaments or the meniscus, which can affect long-term outcomes.
How ACL & MCL Injuries Are Diagnosed
Diagnosing knee ligament injuries involves a combination of clinical assessment and imaging.
Your evaluation may include:
- A detailed physical examination and knee stability testing
- X-rays to rule out fractures or bone-related injuries involving the thighbone (femur) or shinbone (tibia)
- MRI to confirm ligament damage and assess associated injuries to cartilage or menisci
Accurate diagnosis allows your orthopedic specialist to recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment Overview for ACL & MCL Injuries
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury, as well as your activity level and goals.
- MCL injuries often heal with non-surgical care, including bracing, activity modification, and physical therapy.
- ACL injuries vary in severity. Some partial tears may respond to conservative treatment, while complete tears—especially in active individuals—often require surgical reconstruction.
Your orthopedic specialist will guide next steps based on knee stability, lifestyle demands, and long-term joint health.
Schedule a Knee Injury Evaluation in the Houston Area
Knee ligament injuries don’t always heal on their own—and delaying care can increase the risk of chronic instability or additional damage.
Expert orthopedic and sports medicine care is available at CLS Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Associates, with convenient locations in Webster, Sugar Land, Pasadena, and Pearland (opening soon). Our specialists evaluate ACL and MCL injuries and develop personalized treatment plans to protect your knee, restore stability, and support a safe return to activity.
Schedule a knee injury evaluation today to get answers and personalized care for your recovery.
