Another way to avoid damaging your knee further is to avoid exposing your knee to hot temperatures for at least 48 hours after the injury occurs. Hot temperatures could cause your knee to swell up and become even more tender.

Do not place an ice pack or ice directly against your skin;[2] X Research source make sure to wrap it in a hand towel first to avoid damaging your skin. Hold the ice pack against your knee for 15 to 20 minutes, then let your knee rest. You can repeat this process throughout the day.

You can use a pillow to prop up your leg.

Painkillers: These medications limit the pain impulses that are transmitted to your brain, so you don’t feel the pain as acutely. You can purchase simple painkillers, like Paracetamol, over-the-counter. If they don’t work to eliminate your pain, you can also get a prescription for stronger painkillers like codeine and tramadol from your doctor. Oral Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These medications limit both pain and inflammation by acting on certain chemicals in your body. Common NSAIDs include Ibuprofen, Naproxen and Aspirin.

MCL sprains are commonly corrected with arthroscopic surgery; this surgery involves using a tiny camera to get a visual picture of the damaged area to help surgeons repair the sprain.

As you recover, you may be given a different knee brace that can help you to begin using your knee again without putting too much pressure on the knee.

Repeat this exercise 10 to 20 times.

Maintain this position for 10 seconds then return your leg to the starting position. Switch to your other leg and repeat the exercise.

. Hold this position for 5 to 10 seconds then return to the starting position. Switch legs and repeat the exercise.

First Degree Sprain: Only a small number of ligament fibres are damaged. Second Degree Sprain: Affects a greater portion of ligament fibres however the ligaments stay integral. Third Degree Sprain: Causes total shatter of the ligament that can affect other structures in the knee like the meniscus (cartilage) and Anterior Cruciate Ligament.

Athletes who participate in contact sports, or sports where they must run and change direction quickly are at a greater risk of injuring their MCLS.

First degree sprain: Localized sharp pain is felt on the site of injury due to the stress or irritation placed on the ligament. Sensation of pain may worsen upon movement of joints or after any contact made on the injured part. Second degree sprain: You may feel pain if the injured area is touched, or any pressure is applied to it. Inflammation may be visible within 24 hours after injury. The pain is sharp and throbbing or pulsating. Third degree sprain: Rupture of the ligament is present accompanied by unsteadiness of the knee joint. Any movement or activity involving the knee joint may be impaired as well. Swelling can be apparent due to the leakage of fluids from the damaged joint. The pain is sharp and excruciating.