Ligament
Read Your Scan Editorial Team·Last updated
Written from published radiology references and reviewed for plain language. Not written or signed by a physician, and not a diagnosis. How we write these pages →
In plain language
A band of tissue that connects bone to bone and helps keep the knee stable — for example the ACL.
Where you’ll see this
This wording turns up on Knee MRI reports — MRI imaging of the knee. A knee MRI is very good at showing soft tissues that X-rays cannot, including the menisci (the knee’s cushions), the major ligaments, the tendons, the joint cartilage, and the bones. Doctors order it after an injury, for pain, swelling, locking, or instability, or to plan treatment. Some findings, like mild wear, are common with age and may not be the source of symptoms — your doctor connects the images to your exam.
Questions worth asking your doctor
- Do the MRI findings explain the pain, swelling, or instability I feel?
- Is any finding likely age-related rather than from a recent injury?
- What are my treatment options, including non-surgical ones?
- Would physical therapy help before considering other steps?
- Do I need any follow-up, and when should I check back?
Other words on the same report
See this word on your own scan
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Read Your Scan is informational only — not a medical diagnosis, and not a substitute for a licensed radiologist or your doctor. If you have urgent symptoms, seek care.