Quick Summary
Inner-knee pain after a twist or impact may involve the MCL. Get a plan that protects the ligament while restoring strength, movement and confidence. Our physiotherapists in New Malden can assess your symptoms and help you choose appropriate next steps for your goals. We agree practical goals and review your progress.
Understanding MCL Injury
The medial collateral ligament, or MCL, supports the inner side of the knee. Injury ranges from a mild sprain to a complete tear. Many isolated MCL injuries are treated without surgery, but associated ACL or meniscus damage can change the rehabilitation and referral needs.
Assessment at J&J Therapy
We consider the injury mechanism and examine movement and stability when safe. Significant swelling or instability may need imaging or orthopaedic advice. If a brace is prescribed, the exercise plan follows its movement and weight-bearing instructions.
Do You Experience These Symptoms?
- Tenderness and swelling along the inner knee after injury.
- Pain with side-to-side stress or turning.
- Difficulty walking confidently or a feeling that the knee may give way.
An assessment helps guide your next step, based on your symptoms, health and goals.
Treatment and rehabilitation options
Hands-On Manual Therapy
Once assessed, comfortable mobilisation and soft tissue care may support movement and ease surrounding muscle symptoms. Treatment avoids forceful sideways stress on the healing ligament and does not replace progressive exercise. We explain the purpose and check your comfort and response throughout treatment.
Is Shockwave Suitable?
Shockwave is not a routine treatment for an MCL sprain or tear. The priority is appropriate protection followed by a gradual return to loading and functional activity. Your physiotherapist can explain the more suitable options and how their effect will be reviewed during your ongoing rehabilitation.
Targeted Exercise Programme
Rehabilitation develops comfortable knee movement, thigh and hip strength and balance. We then introduce controlled turning, running or sport-specific tasks when appropriate. Progress is based on stability and function as well as pain. Your home plan is adapted as your function and confidence improve.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
While most symptoms are not serious, urgent medical attention is required if you experience any of the following:
- Seek urgent GP or NHS 111 advice if you cannot move the knee, bear weight, or straighten a knee that is locked.
- A hot swollen knee with fever or feeling unwell needs urgent medical assessment.
- Go to A&E for a deformed leg after injury or a foot that becomes cold, pale or numb.
Your questions answered
Do MCL injuries usually need an operation?
Many isolated injuries are managed without surgery. More complex injuries, persistent instability or associated ligament damage may require specialist input.
Can I walk on the injured knee?
This depends on the injury and any brace advice. Severe pain or inability to bear weight needs urgent assessment; once cleared, walking is progressed according to your treatment plan.
Which appointment should I book?
Start with a Physiotherapy Initial Assessment for new, persistent or recurring symptoms. We can assess the problem and agree a plan linked to your daily activities. If you have already had medical care or surgery, bring the relevant instructions.
Book a Physiotherapy Assessment or call our reception team on 07935 869938. Find J&J Therapy at CI Tower, Ground Floor, New Malden.
Related conditions
Knee Ligament Sprain · Meniscus Tear
Sources and further reading
This page is for general information only and does not replace professional medical advice.
Information updated 15 October 2026. General information only; this page cannot diagnose your symptoms. Treatment is agreed after assessment. For urgent or severe symptoms, use the medical services described above.