For an LCL injury, which history finding is commonly reported?

For an LCL injury, which history finding is commonly reported?

• A. Direct trauma to the medial knee causing varus stress
• B. Localized swelling over the LCL
• C. Report of instability
• D. Pain with knee flexion beyond 90 degrees

Answer: (B)

Localized swelling over the outer side of the knee where the LCL runs is the most commonly reported history in an LCL injury. The LCL sits along the lateral knee, so trauma that produces varus stress or a blow to the medial aspect tends to irritate that area, leading to edema and tenderness centered over the ligament near the fibular head. This localized swelling fits with the site of the injury and is usually the most noticeable symptom patients report. Instability, while possible, is more typical of injuries involving multiple ligaments or chronic laxity rather than a simple isolated LCL tear. Pain with deep flexion (beyond 90 degrees) points more toward meniscal or intra-articular cartilage issues rather than an isolated LCL injury.

Localized swelling over the outer side of the knee where the LCL runs is the most commonly reported history in an LCL injury. The LCL sits along the lateral knee, so trauma that produces varus stress or a blow to the medial aspect tends to irritate that area, leading to edema and tenderness centered over the ligament near the fibular head. This localized swelling fits with the site of the injury and is usually the most noticeable symptom patients report. Instability, while possible, is more typical of injuries involving multiple ligaments or chronic laxity rather than a simple isolated LCL tear. Pain with deep flexion (beyond 90 degrees) points more toward meniscal or intra-articular cartilage issues rather than an isolated LCL injury.