How do you know the difference between knee tendonitis and MCL injury?

Knee tendonitis and MCL injury are two common knee injuries that can cause pain and swelling around the knee. However, there are some key differences between the two injuries that can help you tell them apart.

Location of pain:

* Knee tendonitis: The pain is usually located just below the kneecap, where the patellar tendon attaches to the tibia (shin bone).

* MCL injury: The pain is usually located on the inside of the knee, where the MCL attaches to the tibia.

Swelling:

* Knee tendonitis: There may be mild swelling around the knee, but it is usually not significant.

* MCL injury: There is usually significant swelling around the knee, especially on the inside of the knee.

Tenderness:

* Knee tendonitis: The area just below the kneecap is usually tender to the touch.

* MCL injury: The inside of the knee is usually tender to the touch.

Range of motion:

* Knee tendonitis: There is usually no restriction in range of motion.

* MCL injury: There may be some restriction in range of motion, especially with bending the knee.

Strength:

* Knee tendonitis: There is usually no weakness in the knee.

* MCL injury: There may be some weakness in the knee, especially with straightening the knee.

If you are experiencing pain and swelling around your knee, it is important to see a doctor to get a proper diagnosis. Your doctor can perform a physical examination and order imaging tests, such as an MRI, to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.