The knee’s medial collateral ligament (MCL) can tear after trauma to the knee such as a fall or an accident. Because the ligaments receive little blood, a torn MCL will not heal on its own; it needs to be treated by a doctor. Below, we will take a look at how MCL tears are treated, as well as where you can find affordable MCL treatments in Malibu.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Minor MCL tears can sometimes be treated without surgery, especially if the patient is older and less physically active. Even when surgery is used, non-surgical treatments are usually used alongside surgery. Some of the most effective non-surgical MCL treatments include:
- Rest – After trauma to the knee, a limited amount of rest can give the opportunity for swelling and discomfort to go down. However, more than a few days of rest, unless directed by your doctor, can lead to more problems.
- Ice – Icing the knee can help bring down inflammation and relieve symptoms. For several days after the injury or after surgery, you can ice your knee for 20 minutes every 3-4 hours.
- Elevation – Elevating the knee above the level of your heart helps bring down swelling. Make sure to use pillows to fully support the knee if you elevate it.
- Compression – Your doctor may recommend a bandage or device to keep the knee in place and keep swelling down.
- Physical therapy – Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles that support the knee and restore flexibility to the knee.
- Medication – Taking NSAIDs like Aleve or Advil can help relieve the pain and inflammation associated with an MCL tear. Do not take NSAIDs for an extended period of time unless your doctor directs you to do so.
Surgical Treatment
Moderate to severe MCL tears often need to be treated surgically, especially if the patient is more physically active. Minimally invasive knee surgery can usually be used to treat MCL tears. With minimally invasive surgery, the doctor only makes a few small incisions. The procedure can be performed in an ambulatory surgery center. The risk of side effects is lower, and the recovery time is shorter, although the time until a complete recovery is made can still be significant.
Affordable MCL Treatments
Your insurance should cover the cost of MCL treatment, which means that your insurance coverage is the biggest factor that contributes to how much or how little you pay out of pocket. In addition, some doctors make an effort to keep their costs to a minimum so that treatment is as affordable as possible. Dr. Howard Marans of OC Orthopedic offers the most affordable MCL treatments near Malibu, CA.
Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about treatment for your MCL tear. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.