Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Injuries of the Knee: Rehab Phases & Taping Support

What Are LCL Injuries?

The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is a key stabiliser on the outer knee, preventing excessive varus stress and posterolateral rotation. Though uncommon, LCL injuries typically result from a blow to the inner knee or forceful twisting, and are often associated with other injuries such as ACL or posterolateral corner tears. Injury severity is graded 1–3, from mild sprain to complete rupture.

Rehabilitation Phases for LCL Injuries

Phase I: Protection & Early Movement

• Goals: Control swelling, protect healing ligament, initiate gentle muscle activation.

• Interventions: PRICE (Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), controlled exercises such as heel slides, static quads, and straight-leg raises, often performed with bracing.

Phase II: Controlled Motion & Early Strengthening

• Goals: Restore range of motion, begin closed-chain strengthening.

• Interventions: +/-Hinged brace for protection (depending on severity), bilateral squats, hip strengthening, gentle proprioceptive work.

Phase III: Advanced Strength & Proprioception

• Goals: Full ROM, increased strength, balance, and neuromuscular control.

• Interventions: Unilateral strengthening, cardiovascular conditioning (e.g., bike, step-ups), proprioceptive drills.

Phase IV: Return to Play

• Goals: Return to sport-specific drills, agility, and dynamic loading with confidence and stability.

• Interventions: Agility training, plyometrics, performance testing prior to full clearance.

Supporting Return with Lateral Collateral Taping

Watch our video demonstrating a lateral collateral taping technique:

This taping can be especially helpful during early loading and sport reintroduction phases, as it:

• Provides external support against varus stress

• Enhances proprioceptive feedback

• Builds confidence for safe movement and rehab progression

Why This Rehab Approach Works

• Structured, phased rehab matches the healing dynamics of the LCL.

• Taping and bracing provide protection and confidence during progression.

• Gradual return ensures tissue adaptation and reduces reinjury risk.

Summary Table

Phase	Focus	Key Techniques
Phase I	Protection & early activation	PRICE, bracing, gentle ROM, isometrics
Phase II	ROM & strength initiation	Brace-protected load, closed-chain exercises
Phase III	Advanced strength & proprioception	Unilateral drills, balance work, cardio
Phase IV	Sport-specific return	Agility, plyometrics, performance testing

Final Thoughts

An LCL injury, while rare, requires a structured and phased approach to rehabilitation. At Body Fit Physiotherapy, we combine clinical expertise, evidence-backed protocols, and practical support such as lateral collateral taping to guide you safely back to your sport or active lifestyle.

Thinking about your own recovery? Get in touch with our team for a personalised rehab plan!

References

1. LaPrade RF, et al. "Lateral collateral ligament injuries of the knee: anatomy, diagnosis, and treatment." J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2014.

2. Azar FM, et al. "Evaluation and treatment of chronic isolated lateral collateral ligament injuries of the knee." Sports Med Arthrosc Rev. 2015.

3. JOSPT Clinical Practice Guidelines: Knee ligament rehabilitation. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2017.

4. Sanders TL, et al. "Epidemiology of isolated LCL injuries." Am J Sports Med. 2019.

5. Akoh CC, et al. Non-operative rehabilitation protocol for isolated LCL tears. Sports Rehabilitation Protocols. 2021.