MCL injuries

[WestWYOPoke]

From the sounds of it, Appleby has a torn MCL. Just thought I'd post a little background info on MCL injuries in college football and how it could pan out for Chase.

First, some very brief anatomy. The MCL (medial collateral ligament) lies on the inner side of the knee stretching from the femur to the tibia. It provides medial stabilization of the knee joint, preventing the knee from bending inwards.

An MCL is not necessarily season ending. The length of time out is mainly dependent on the severity of the injury. Ligament injuries (AKA sprains) are classified in 3 grades; Grade 1 - stretching of the ligament with no or minimal fiber tearing, Grade 2 - partial tear to the ligament, Grade 3 - complete tear (rupture) of the ligament.

A grade 3 sprain would likely end Chase's season as it would require complete immobilization for about 3 weeks with another 3-4 weeks of rehab after that. He could maybe be back for the bowl game, but that would be a stretch.

A grade 2 sprain can vary from person to person, but is typically a 2-4 week recovery. He would be out against UNM, but might be back for a MWC championship game and most likely ready for a bowl game.

A grade 1 sprain is the most ideal, if he can regain full range of motion and strength by Saturday, the Sports Medicine staff can tape and brace his knee and he could play against the Lobos. Even if he missed this week, he would almost certainly be ready for a MWC championship game.

 

[Cowboy Junky]

I was wondering if Chase will say, "Fuck it, give me some pain killers, I'm not risking a career in football after college anyway. I want to play the next three games, MCL be dammed."

I'm guessing that's exactly what he'll say. I just don't know if anyone in our staff will listen and allow it.

 

[WestWYOPoke]

If it's a Grade 1 or 2, it's possible. If it's a grade 3 he would be more of a hindrance than a help, he'd be nowhere near mobile enough, even with some painkillers in him.

 

[pokefanchaz7]

Sounded like he is hoping to return at some point. I was assuming it would be for the bowl game as that will likely be three or more weeks down the road.

 

[Cowboy Junky]

If it's a Grade 1 or 2, it's possible. If it's a grade 3 he would be more of a hindrance than a help, he'd be nowhere near mobile enough, even with some painkillers in him.

I wouldn't put anything past Chase though. He's one tough sob. If anyone can be effective with a blown out knee, my money would be on Chase Appleby to get it done.

I don't think it will happen, but it wouldn't surprise me if we suddenly see Chase appear in a MWC championship game or a bowl game this year.

 

[fromolwyoming]

I was wondering if Chase will say, "Fuck it, give me some pain killers, I'm not risking a career in football after college anyway. I want to play the next three games, MCL be dammed."

I'm guessing that's exactly what he'll say. I just don't know if anyone in our staff will listen and allow it.

Take it from someone way too familiar with knee injuries;

Do NOT aggravate them if you can help it. They can, all too easily, come back and bite you in the ass. And no, it doesn't have to be from something like football.