What is the external lateral ligament?
The external lateral ligament (LLE) or lateral collateral ligament is one of the four main ligaments that support the knee joint. It joins the femur to the tibia: it goes from the upper part of the tibia to the lower section of the femur. Its function is to prevent lateral mobility of the knee joint and to keep the outer side of the joint stable.
The most frequent injuries (rupture and sprain) occur by pressure or by an injury that pushes the knee joint from the inside, which causes tension in the external part.
What are the symptoms of external lateral ligament problems?
The symptoms of an external lateral ligament injury are:
- Swelling of the knee
- Locking of the knee with movement
- Pain or tenderness on the outside of the knee
- Knee loosens
- It feels like it is going to loosen when it is active or under stress.
What are the causes of external lateral ligament problems?
An external lateral ligament injury can occur in the following situations:
- Blow to the inside of the knee
- Blow to the shin when the knee is bent.
- When placing the foot on the ground to propel oneself forward
What is the treatment of external lateral ligament problems?
The patient should apply ice to the area, in addition to anti-inflammatory drugs, elevate the knee and cease physical activity until the pain and swelling go away. The treatment of the injury depends on the damage it has caused and its severity:
- Moderate or severe injury: physiotherapy is the indicated treatment. It consists of complying with a program of rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the knee and stretching its muscles. Sometimes a brace may be used to support the knee during exercise, especially if the injury has been severe.
- More severe injury: if the knee remains unstable after treatment with physical therapy, if the patient plays a lot of sports, or if more than one knee tissue or ligament has been damaged, surgery is the indicated treatment.