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Clinical presentation

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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clinical presentation

History is an important factor in diagnosing the injury early.

  • typically a history of traumatic injury is present and is most commonly due to valgus stress on the knee joint.
  • patient may complain of a tearing sensation and if an auditory 'pop' is present, suspect high energy injuries and involvement of additional structures (1)
  • in one study 76% of patients with complete MCL tears wlaked into the doctors office without any support (2)

Some patients may present with an effusion suggesting a severe injury or concomitant damage to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) or meniscus

  • patients should be inquired about time and onset of swelling
  • an acute effusion (within two hours of injury) - indicates hemarthrosis
  • swelling within 12-24 hours after injury - indicates a synovial effusion (2)
  • in multiligament knee injuries, capsular disruption may result in swelling and eccymosis down the leg (with minimal swelling of the knee) (1)

Incomplete tears tend to hurt more than complete tears (2)

Reference:

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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