The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) and posterolateral corner (PLC) are a group of structures on the outer side of the knee that resist outward bending and rotational forces. Injury ranges from a stretch to a complete tear.
Usually caused by a direct blow to the inner side of the knee that forces it outward, or a twisting injury — common in contact sports and high-energy trauma.
Pain and tenderness on the outer side of the knee, a sense of instability or the knee "opening up" with side-to-side stress, and often swelling. Numbness or weakness in the foot can occur if the nearby peroneal nerve is affected.
Lower-grade sprains often heal with bracing and physical therapy. Complete tears, especially when combined with other ligament injuries (a common pattern), usually require surgical reconstruction to restore stability, since an unaddressed PLC injury can also jeopardize the success of an ACL or PCL reconstruction done at the same time.
Think you might have this condition? An accurate diagnosis starts with an exam — schedule a consultation with Dr. Thomson.
Schedule a ConsultThis page is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every injury is different — always consult Dr. Thomson or another qualified physician for a personalized evaluation.