About this video
Last updated: 9 October 2026
The video lists four: a feeling that the knee might buckle, swelling that may be delayed, localised pain that is not always severe, and reduced confidence in the knee. It says the signs can be subtle or delayed. The video says pain may not be sharp or constant.
Key points
- The video describes ligaments as strong bands of tissue connecting bone to bone, names the ACL, MCL, PCL and LCL, and says a ligament may be partially or completely torn.
- First sign: a feeling that the knee might buckle, especially when turning, on uneven surfaces or going downstairs, which the video links with ligament laxity.
- Second sign: swelling that may not show up immediately and is often more noticeable the next day.
- Third sign: localised pain that is not always severe, may come and go, and may appear only with movements such as pivoting or twisting.
- Fourth sign: reduced confidence in the knee, such as avoiding stairs, turning slowly or shifting weight away, even when still able to walk.
- The video lists structured physiotherapy, bracing, activity modification and, in some cases, surgery, depending on the type and severity of the tear.
Questions this video answers
What are the subtle signs of a knee ligament injury?
The video lists four: a feeling that the knee might buckle, swelling that may be delayed, localised pain that is not always severe, and reduced confidence in the knee. It says the signs can be subtle or delayed.
Can a ligament injury cause only mild pain?
The video says pain may not be sharp or constant. It may come and go, or appear only during certain movements such as pivoting or twisting, along the inner or outer knee.
How are knee ligament injuries managed, according to the video?
The video lists structured physiotherapy, bracing, activity modification and, in some cases, surgery, depending on the type and severity of the tear. It says that if the knee feels unstable, catches during movement, or confidence has been lost, it may be worth having it assessed by a qualified professional.
