Knee Ligaments: Stability, Function & Key Roles
Four Major Ligaments
| Ligament | Location | Primary Function |
|---|---|---|
| Medial Collateral (MCL) | Inner knee | Resists valgus (inward buckling); connects femur to tibia. |
| Lateral Collateral (LCL) | Outer knee | Resists varus (outward buckling); connects femur to fibula. |
| Anterior Cruciate (ACL) | Central | Prevents anterior tibial translation; rotational stability. |
| Posterior Cruciate (PCL) | Central, behind ACL | Prevents posterior tibial translation. |
Integrated Role
Together they provide multiplanar stability, proprioceptive feedback, and load distribution. Injuries often involve combined mechanisms (e.g., ACL + MCL).
Management
- Acute: RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation).
- Rehabilitation: PT for strength, neuromuscular control.
- Surgery: ACL/PCL reconstruction for instability; MCL/LCL often heal non-operatively.
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