any ideas on what I've done?

[cornishrugby5]

Whilst playing rugby at the weekend my leg ended up stuck at the bottom of a ruck as i was standing and an opposition player shoulder barged my knee (from outside to in) which consequently caused the knee to collapse and a fairly loud snapping/popping noise ensued (heard about 5 feet away). needless to say it was agonisingly painful. At the hospital the next day i was told its swollen and seems to be hot indicating lots of blood around the injured site. I was then given a brace and crutches and told to come back later in the week when the swelling had gone down. I really have no idea what ive done or how i should be treating it other than icing it regularly and keeping it elevated when resting. Please can somebody give me an idea of what ive done and what i should do? I can now bend my knee 60% of the way but have very limited stability on its inner arc and the swelling doesn't seem to be subsiding. many thanks to anybody that takes the time to read this. Adam

[Heidi]

Hi
Probably MCL (medical collateral ligament): http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/front/knee/medialligament.htm
Possible ACL or Meniscus (cartilage) damage or even a combination of 2 or all 3 of these.
Unfortunately there is no way of knowing for definite without an MRI scan. Once the swelling has decreased a sports injury specialist will be able to give you a good idea of what the injury may be.
You should rest, ice, compress and elevate. Try to keep the knee moving gently so it doesn't stiffen up.

[cornishrugby5]

Thanks for the reply Heidi. Keeping it rested and taking all of your advice. Hoping its not too much bad news after my scan! many thanks again. Adam