How Do You Perform Lower Body Exercises With A Sprained MCL?

The MCL is the medial collateral ligament that connects the thigh bone to the shin bone on the inside of the leg. Its primary function is stabilizing the knee laterally with the assistance of the other ligaments of the knee. When a blow occurs to the outside of the leg, sustainable damage typically occurs to the MCL. Here are some ways in which you can perform lower body exercises to avoid atrophy and begin rehabilitating the ligament. Step 1 Utilize the elliptical machine thoroughly! There is no better place to begin fitness rehab than with twenty-five to thirty minute cardio sessions on an elliptical. This will allow you to mobilize the joint without having to place any type of serious force on the knee while moving. Step 2 Don't be afraid to squat! Squatting exercises are definitely more efficient at strengthening quadriceps and hamstring muscles; these muscles support and stabilize the knee. Heavy weight should be avoided at first; however, light weight with high repetitions is ...  more