With Round 1 of the AFL season finally here, there was undoubtedly plenty of excitement amongst footy fans all over Australia. However, for Tom Stewart and Geelong Cats supporters in particular, the opening week wasn’t as joyful as they had hoped it would be – with Stewart suffering a serious MCL injury during their match against Collingwood on Friday night. In this review, we will look into the injury, possible prognosis, treatment options and when we can expect to see Stewart back on the field.
Injury Review – Tom Stewart suffers an MCL Injury in Round 1
Tom Stewart, the reliable defender of the Geelong Cats, suffered an MCL injury in a recent match. The injury may have implications for Stewart’s future performance, and it’s important to understand the nature of the injury and how it will be treated.
MCL – Medial Collateral Ligament Injury
The MCL (Medical Collateral Ligament) is a ligament that runs along the inner side of the knee, connecting the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia). The MCL primary function is to resist valgus (inward bending) forces in the knee joint. MCL tears are classified on the basis of severity into Grade 1 (mild, first degree), Grade 2 (moderate partial ruptures, second degree) or Grade 3 (complete tears). A Grade 2 MCL injury indicates that the ligament has been partially torn, which can result in pain or tenderness on the inside of the knee, swelling and instability of the knee joint.
How did the injury occur?
Stewart’s injury was likely caused by a sudden change of direction or a direct impact to the outer side of his knee. The severity of the injury will depend on the extent of the ligament damage.
What is the prognosis of a Grade 2 tear?
The prognosis for a Grade 2 MCL injury is generally good with proper treatment and rehabilitation. Depending on the severity of the MCL injury recovery can be between 4-6 weeks for Grade 1 & 2 and 8-12 weeks for Grade 3. Stewart will require a period of rest to allow the ligament to heal, followed by a progressive rehabilitation program. Physiotherapy treatment will focus on reducing pain and swelling, restoring full range of motion, and improving strength, balance, and coordination of the knee joint.
Treatment options?
Initially, Stewart may require crutches to help him walk and protect the knee from further damage. He will also need to ice, compress, and elevate the knee regularly and take anti-inflammatory medication as prescribed by his doctor. Phase 1 (0-1 week post injury) of Stewart’s physiotherapy program will include manual therapy, patient education, gentle range of motion (mainly flexion), quadriceps setting exercises, calf raises, hip abduction and extension, hamstring exercises and gait re-education drills, while progressing to full weight bear. These strengthening exercises will be gradually progressed over the weeks and include balance and proprioceptive drills (includes balance exercises such as single leg balance). Towards the 6 or 12 weeks mark depending on the ligament injury, the program will include high level sport-specific strengthening drills, restricted training and match play.
It’s important for Stewart to follow his rehabilitation program closely and work with his medical team to ensure that he doesn’t return to play too soon. Returning to activity too early can increase the risk of re-injury and cause long-term complications.
How can Symmetry Physiotherapy help?
Tom Stewart has suffered an MCL injury which may have significant implications for his future performance on the field.
Fortunately, Symmetry Physiotherapy can help with the treatment and recovery process. Our team of experienced practitioners are committed to helping you get back to your peak performance by tailoring a treatment plan that is unique to your specific needs. From clinical techniques such as manual therapy and dry needling, to therapeutic exercises and lifestyle advice, we have the knowledge and expertise to get you back on track quickly and efficiently.
If you or someone you care about has suffered an MCL injury, don’t hesitate – make an appointment today with one of our experienced physiotherapists for an individualized treatment plan. At Symmetry Physiotherapy, we are here to help!