What Is the MCL?
The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is one of the major ligaments that support and stabilize your knee joint. It runs along the inner side of the knee, connecting the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia), and is essential for:
- Stability on the inner side of the knee
- Preventing excessive side-to-side movement
- Supporting the knee during walking, running, or pivoting
MCL injuries are common in contact sports, falls, or sudden twisting movements. Unlike some other ligament injuries, many MCL tears can heal without surgery, depending on the severity.
Who Is a Candidate for MCL Surgery?
While mild to moderate MCL injuries often respond well to non-surgical treatment, surgery may be recommended if:
- You have a high-grade (Grade III) MCL tear confirmed by MRI
- Your knee remains unstable despite rehabilitation
- The injury involves multiple ligaments (e.g., combined ACL–MCL injury)
- You wish to return to high-impact sports or physical activities
- There is chronic laxity or instability in the inner knee
Our orthopedic specialists will evaluate your MRI, physical exam, and activity level to determine the best treatment plan—surgical or non-surgical.
About the Procedure
MCL reconstruction or repair aims to restore stability and function to the knee. Depending on the injury, your surgeon may perform a repair (reattaching the ligament) or a reconstruction (replacing it with a graft). The procedure typically includes:
- Identifying and assessing the damaged ligament
- Repairing the torn fibers or harvesting a graft (usually hamstring or donor tissue)
- Anchoring the ligament to the femur and tibia for proper alignment
- Closing the incision with sterile dressing
The surgery is usually performed arthroscopically or through a small incision, under general or spinal anesthesia. Typical procedure time: 60–90 minutes.
Recovery Timeline
Recovery after MCL surgery is gradual and guided by physiotherapy:
- Hospital stay: Same day or overnight
- Brace and crutches: 1–3 weeks depending on stability
- Return to light activities: 6–8 weeks
- Running and agility training: ~3–4 months
- Return to contact sports: 6–9 months, depending on healing and strength
Our team customizes your rehabilitation plan to help you regain knee strength, stability, and mobility—safely and confidently.
Learn More or Request a Free Assessment
If you’ve sustained an MCL injury or are experiencing inner knee instability, fill out our consultation form for a free evaluation. We’ll review your MRI, symptoms, and activity goals to help guide your next steps -whether your path to recovery involves conservative care or surgical repair.
