lateral collateral ligament

The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is a thick band of tissue on the outer side of the knee that connects the thigh bone (femur) to the smaller bone in the lower leg (fibula). Its main role is to stabilize the knee and prevent it from buckling or shifting sideways, especially during movements that involve side-to-side motion or quick changes in direction. When the LCL is stretched or torn, it can cause knee pain, swelling, and instability, often resulting from sports injuries or trauma. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential for recovery and restoring knee function.