The MCL connects the femur and tibia on the inner side of the leg and resists forces acting on the outer side of the knee. The LCL connects the femur and tibia on the outside of the leg and resists forces acting on the inner side of the knee. The two ligaments create support and stability for the knee. The MCL is more often injured than the LCL as injuries are often caused by a blow to the outer side of the knee, usually seen in contact sports, that stretches/tears the ligaments on the inner side of the knee.
Symptoms of MCL and LCL tears often include pain, stiffness, swelling and tenderness along the inner or outer side of the knee.
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