kollateraaliligamentti

Kollateraaliligamentti, or collateral ligament in English, refers to a group of strong, fibrous bands of tissue that provide stability to the knee joint. The two primary 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, connecting the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone). It helps prevent excessive inward movement of the knee. The LCL is situated on the outer side of the knee, connecting the femur to the fibula (the smaller bone in the lower leg). It resists excessive outward movement of the knee.

These ligaments play a crucial role in maintaining the knee's structural integrity, particularly during rotational and side-to-side movements. Injuries to collateral ligaments, often referred to as sprains, commonly occur due to direct blows to the side of the knee or sudden twisting of the joint. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, tenderness, and a feeling of instability in the knee. The severity of a collateral ligament sprain is typically graded based on the extent of the tear, ranging from a mild stretch to a complete rupture. Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination and may be confirmed with imaging techniques such as MRI. Treatment depends on the grade of the injury and can involve rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), physical therapy, bracing, or, in severe cases, surgical repair.