Diagnosis and Treatment of Posterolateral Instability in a Patient With Lateral Collateral Ligament Sprain

Alison T. DeLeo, Lynn Snyder-Mackler, W. Wayne Woodzell

The purpose of this case problem was to describe an uncommon presentation and treatment of a patient with posterolateral corner instability. Table 1 of the article summarizes the physical therapy interventions and physical therapy goals for this patient. Posterolateral corner damage is typically concomitant with injury to the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) or anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). This patient was unique because she injured the posterolateral corner in combination with a grade II lateral collateral ligament (LCL) sprain. Additionally, an uncommon feature presenting in this patient’s case was the perceived abnormal position of the fibular head. As in most knee injuries, quadriceps weakness was a major contributor to her functional level, thereby making strengthening exercises a cornerstone of treatment. In the clinical management of this patient, reassessment throughout the course of physical therapy, multiplane proprioceptive exercises, and a comprehensive home exercise program (HEP) were helpful in returning the patient to her prior level of function. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2003; 33(4):185-195.

In the clinical management of this patient with posterolateral corner instability, reassessment throughout the course of physical therapy, multiplane proprioceptive exercises, and a comprehensive home exercise program were helpful in returning the patient to her prior level of function.

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