Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
Located inside the knee joint, the ACL connects the thigh bone to the shin bone and controls front-to-back knee stability. ACL tears often occur during sudden stops, pivots, or direct impact in sports like football, basketball, and cricket. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and knee instability. Treatment ranges from physical therapy to surgical reconstruction.
Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL)
Located on the inner side of the knee, the MCL stabilizes the inner edge of the joint. Injuries are common in contact sports due to a direct blow to the outside of the knee. Symptoms include inner knee pain, swelling, and difficulty bending the knee. MCL tears usually heal with conservative care but severe cases may require surgery.
Lateral Ankle Ligaments (ATFL, CFL)
Located around the ankle, these ligaments stabilize the outer ankle joint. Injuries often occur due to twisting, landing awkwardly, or sudden direction changes. This is one of the most common injuries in runners, footballers, and basketball players. Symptoms include sharp pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. Treatment may involve rest, bracing, physiotherapy, or in rare cases, surgery.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL - Elbow)
Located on the inner side of the elbow, the UCL stabilizes the joint during throwing motions. It is commonly injured in cricket bowlers, tennis players, and athletes performing repetitive overhead movements. Symptoms include inner elbow pain and reduced throwing strength. Severe tears may require surgical reconstruction.