MCL Tear Information

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Causes


MCL injuries are often caused by a direct hit to the outside of the knee. This is common in sports such as:


    MCL Tears -- Football
  • Hockey
  • Football
  • Rugby

While this is usually the result of a sports hit or tackle, it can also result from a fall or car accident.

Sports that involve bending, twisting, and quick changes in direction can also cause MCL injuries. This includes:


    MCL Tears -- Skiing
  • Downhill Skiing
  • Soccer
  • Basketball

The above are known as acute injuries, meaning they are the result of a one-time incident (trauma) that caused the MCL to become damaged. The MCL can also become damaged due to repetitive movements over time. This is known as a degenerative injury or repetitive strain injury. While acute injuries are common amongst younger, more athletic patients, degeneration is usually seen among patients who are 40+.