Sport injuries have come to the forefront with the worldwide coverage of all sports. Of these injuries, the most common is knee injuries. A large portion of knee injuries are Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) stains and tears. Knee injuries are more predominate in contact sports such as football. However, they occur in other sports as well. To understand this injury (definition and diagram)

The knee is a very complicated joint, and knee injuries can be very detailed. After receiving first aid most knee injuries are referred to a physician. Most serious knee injuries in sports can be prevented but the key is to get the athletes to work on strengthening the quadriceps and the hamstring muscle …show more content…
A brace or immobilizer is usually needed for comfort.
Treatment
Resting from activity
Icing the Injury,
Taking Anti-inflammatory medications
Using a knee immobilizer
Using weight bearing crutches for the first 10 days to 2 weeks
Removing immobilizer and bending the knee several times daily
A knee brace can be worn as range of motion increases and pain decreases
Apply more weight to the knee as pain will allow
Once knee can be flexed to 100 degrees
Athlete can ride a stationary bike
Crutches can be discontinued once athlete can walk without a limp
Jogging can begin once 60% of quadriceps strength is regained(Compared to other leg)
Agilities at 80%
Athlete is usually sidelined for a minimum of 6 weeks. Complete recovery can take 3-4 months
Specialized Testing
The Varus and Valgus Stress Test, MRI(Magnetic Resonance Imaging) this test is 90% accurate in diagnosing MCL Injuries, Stress X-Rays, and Ultrasound along with a thorough physical examination should dictate the appropriate treatment for optimal results.

Rehab Programs are based on the opinions of the Primary Physician
This is and example of one Program for non operative Grade II and III MCL:
DOCTOR: Robert F. LaPrade, M.D., Assistant Professor, University of Minnesota
Sports Medicine Institute, University of Minnesota
GOALS: Early painfree knee range of motion
- Minimal loss of quadriceps strength
- Healing of injured ligament complex with little to no instability 1st WEEK:
Gait -