Sprain of medial collateral ligament of unspecified knee Save
ICD-10 code: S83.419
Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes
Sprain of medial collateral ligament of unspecified knee: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A sprain of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) of the knee is a common injury that can occur due to a variety of causes. The MCL is a band of tissue on the inside of the knee that connects the thighbone to the shinbone, and it helps to stabilize the knee joint. When the MCL is sprained, it means that the ligament has been stretched or torn, which can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty walking or moving the knee.
Causes of MCL sprains
MCL sprains can occur due to a sudden twisting or impact to the knee, such as during a sports-related injury or a fall. They can also occur due to repetitive stress on the knee joint, which can happen in activities that require a lot of running, jumping, or pivoting.
Symptoms of MCL sprains
The symptoms of an MCL sprain can include pain and tenderness on the inside of the knee, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty walking or moving the knee. In some cases, there may also be a popping or tearing sensation at the time of the injury.
Treatment of MCL sprains
If you suspect that you have an MCL sprain, it is important to seek medical attention right away. The treatment for an MCL sprain will depend on the severity of the injury, but may include rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), as well as physical therapy and/or bracing to help support the knee joint. In some cases, surgery may be required to repair the torn ligament.
- Rest: Resting the knee is important to prevent further damage. Avoid activities that cause pain or discomfort.
- Ice: Applying ice to the knee can help reduce pain and swelling. Use a cold pack or ice wrapped in a towel, and apply it to the knee for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Compression: Wrapping the knee with an elastic bandage can help reduce swelling and provide support. Make sure the bandage is snug but not too tight.
- Elevation: Elevating the knee above the level of the heart can help reduce swelling. Prop your knee up on a pillow or cushion when sitting or lying down.
If you have an MCL sprain, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions for treatment and to avoid activities that could worsen the injury. With proper care, most people with an MCL sprain can recover fully and return to their normal activities over time.
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