Knee Ligament Tears (MCL, LCL, PCL): Non-Surgical Options in Palm Beach

Knee ligament injuries affecting the medial collateral ligament (MCL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL), or posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) are common in contact and cutting sports. While some complete ligament tears require surgical reconstruction, many partial and complete tears of the non-ACL knee ligaments respond well to orthobiologic treatment.

At Palm Beach Regenerative, image-guided platelet injection directly to the site of ligament injury offers a precise, biologically active approach to supporting the body’s natural ligament healing response. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.

What Are Knee Ligament Tears (MCL, LCL, PCL)?

The MCL, LCL, and PCL each serve distinct stabilizing roles in the knee. MCL tears are the most common and occur from valgus stress (blow to the outer knee). LCL tears occur from varus stress and are less common. PCL tears occur from posterior tibial force, such as a dashboard impact.

Grade 1 and 2 sprains with partial tearing generally have good healing potential. Grade 3 complete tears may or may not require surgery depending on the ligament involved and the patient’s activity demands.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Pain and tenderness on the inner knee (MCL), outer knee (LCL), or posterior knee (PCL)
  • Swelling and bruising following acute injury
  • Knee instability in the direction of the injured ligament
  • Pain with weight-bearing and changes of direction
  • Sense of the knee giving way during activity

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Direct impact or valgus force to the knee (MCL)
  • Varus force or hyperextension (LCL, combined posterolateral corner)
  • Direct blow to the anterior tibia pushing it backward (PCL)
  • Sports involving contact, cutting, or pivoting

How It Is Diagnosed

MRI is the definitive imaging tool for grading ligament tears and assessing associated damage to other knee structures. Clinical examination with specific stress tests identifies ligament instability.

Dr. Ghattas reviews your MRI and clinical findings to determine the grade of injury and whether orthobiologic treatment is appropriate.

Conventional Treatment Options

  • MCL tears: Often managed non-surgically with bracing and physical therapy, even at Grade 3
  • LCL and posterolateral corner tears: May require surgical reconstruction at higher grades given the complexity of the lateral complex
  • PCL tears: Often managed conservatively for isolated injuries, surgical reconstruction for Grade 3 with functional instability

The Palm Beach Regenerative Approach

For partial and selected complete ligament tears, Dr. Ghattas delivers image-guided platelet injection directly to the site of ligament injury under real-time ultrasound guidance, providing a precise biological stimulus at the healing zone.

This approach supports the ligament’s natural repair process and may accelerate recovery and improve the quality of healing tissue compared to conservative treatment alone. The goal is to support the ligament’s structure and reduce the instability that perpetuates symptoms.

The BioMod Advantage: MLS Robotic Laser Therapy accelerates ligament tissue recovery and reduces the knee swelling that accompanies acute and subacute ligament injuries. Xymogen collagen synthesis and anti-inflammatory protocols provide the systemic nutritional environment that supports quality ligament healing.

Like all medical procedures, interventional orthobiologics have potential risks and benefits. Results vary by individual. Not all patients are candidates. Dr. Ghattas will discuss your specific situation, realistic expectations, and all treatment options, including when surgery or other interventions may be more appropriate.

NEXT STEP

Consultations Are Usually Available Within 1 to 2 Weeks

Request a consultation or call (561) 501-3900.

●PATIENT OUTCOMES

Patient Experiences

"I had severe knee pain and was looking for proper knee pain treatment, which is how I found Dr. Ghattas on Instagram. I was a bit hesitant at first, but it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made for my health. Francia was amazing at coordinating all my consultations and making the whole process easy and stress-free. If you’re dealing with knee pain and looking for a reliable doctor and team, I highly recommend them."

Roger L

"Over a year ago, both my daughter and I underwent PRP treatment with Dr. Ghattas—PRP for my left knee and PRP for my daughter’s L4-L5 and sacral region. We wanted to wait long enough to truly evaluate the results before sharing our experience. I am pleased to say that the outcomes have been outstanding. My daughter’s improvement has been remarkable, and the treatment has made a significant difference in her quality of life. I have also experienced excellent results with my knee. Dr. Ghattas is an exceptional physician who combines expertise, professionalism, and genuine care for his patients. We are incredibly grateful for the treatment we received and the positive impact it has had on our lives. Thank you, Dr. Ghattas. We are truly grateful for everything you have done. You are simply the best."

Dr Jorge A

“Apart from the exemplary personal service by the reception and the staff that makes us feel we're at home at the clinic, I have experienced remarkable healing in several episodes from shoulder issue to knee injuries and hip pain. The doctor is so thorough in the diagnosis phase that he administered exactly what was needed, no more no less! Thank you folks for a wonderful experience.”

RG G

“I am quite active and go to pilates 3-4 times per week. I was having left knee pain and which was treated with PRP. It took about 3 months for me to feel better but then the pain completely subsided. I now am able to exercise without the fear that I will tear a ligament and am pain free.”

Ellipsis P

"The Regenexx process has been nothing short of amazing. The pre-treatment MRI (performed at an independent facility) indicated that my knee was far worse than the physical symptoms I was experiencing. The treatment process was exactly as Dr. Ghattas explained...."

Tymira M

These testimonials reflect the real-life experiences of patients with the Regenexx protocol but are not necessarily typical of what you or any other patient might experience. Individual results of the procedures using Regenexx lab processes will vary depending on a number of factors, including your diagnosis, the severity of your condition, your overall health, and others. To better understand what large numbers of patients experience on average, please visit the Patient Results page, and inquire with a physician within the licensed Regenexx network near you.

Privacy Preference Center