MCL Tears in Surfing
Client
Undisclosed
Client sector
Patient Education
Type of work
#Medical Animation
#Medical Illustration
#Medical Illustration
Overview
This animated educational infographic examines how high-performance surfing techniques can lead to medial collateral ligament (MCL) strain and tears by forcing the knee into high valgus stress positions, especially during sharp turns. The piece explains the biomechanics of the snap maneuver, highlights real-world cases among elite surfers, and connects the risk of injury to the sport’s growing competitive demands including Olympic competition. The project also emphasizes injury prevention strategies like strength training, flexibility, and technique refinement, and showcases the role of medical visualization in making these complex injury mechanisms clearer for athletes, clinicians, and educators.
What is an MCL tear?
An MCL tear, or medial collateral ligament tear, is a common knee injury that occurs when the ligament on the inner side of the knee is overstretched or torn due to excessive valgus stress or impact. The MCL stabilizes the knee joint and helps control side-to-side movement, making it especially vulnerable during sports that involve sudden twisting, cutting, or directional changes such as soccer, skiing, football, and surfing. Symptoms of an MCL injury include inner knee pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty bearing weight, and severity can range from mild sprains to complete ligament ruptures.
