Kollateralligamenten

Kollateralligamenten are a group of four ligaments in the knee joint. These ligaments connect the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone) and are crucial for knee stability. They prevent excessive side-to-side movement of the knee.

The two main collateral ligaments are the medial collateral ligament (MCL) and the lateral collateral ligament (LCL). The MCL is located on the inner side of the knee, while the LCL is on the outer side. These ligaments work in conjunction with the cruciate ligaments (ACL and PCL) to maintain the structural integrity of the knee during various movements.

Injuries to the kollateralligamenten, such as sprains or tears, often occur due to direct blows to the knee or sudden twisting motions. An MCL injury typically results from a force pushing the knee inward, while an LCL injury is often caused by a force pushing the knee outward. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, and a feeling of instability in the knee. Diagnosis is usually made through physical examination and may be confirmed with imaging techniques like MRI. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the injury and can range from RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) and physical therapy for mild sprains to surgical repair for complete tears.