While MCL injuries of the knee are very common in sports, they fortunately don’t need surgery in most cases. In this Ask Dr. Geier video, I explain the treatment for a torn MCL and how an athlete can best return to sports.

Sully asks:
I have a torn MCL – grade 3. I just want to know if I should wear the knee brace while I’m doing my home exercises?

The MCL is a thick ligament on the medial side (inside) of the knee. An athlete often tears the MCL when he is hit on the outside of the knee. Fortunately, most MCL injuries heal on their own without surgery. A brace that allows flexion and extension of the knee but protects against side-to-side stress is important.

In this video, I discuss MCL injuries and their treatments. I also discuss some of the keys to quickly and safely returning to sports and exercise.

Also read:
Ask Dr. Geier: MCL injuries
Ask Dr. Geier – Knee Braces for MCL Injuries