Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injury

What is an PCL injury?

The PCL is the Posterior Cruciate Ligament which is one of two cruciate ligaments, deep within the knee joint. The other is the anterior cruciate ligament (acl). The ACL and PCL form a cross shape in the knee where they pass each other, which is why they are called cruciate.

The job of the PCL is to stop the Femur (thigh bone) from moving backwards and to keep it inline with the Tibia (shin bone).

The PCL isn't injured as commonly as the ACL because it is stronger and thicker. When it is injured it usually occurs when there is a direct impact to the front of the knee joint like during a tackle or when falling forwards. PCL tears are often associated with other injuries to the knee joint, like cartilage tears.

Symptoms

• Pain in the knee joint upon impact.
• There is usually swelling.
• The joint may feel unstable.
• Unable to walk on it.

Treatment

• Immediately stop play or competition.
• Apply R.I.C.E (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) to the knee straight away.
• Seek medical attention immediately.
• A Doctor or Sports Injury specialist will assess the knee and ask you about how it happened.
• They can send you for an MRI or x-ray to confirm the injury.
• They may refer you for Surgery if required.
• A lot of PCL injuries are treated using conservative methods, such as electrotherapy, massage and rehabilitation exercises to regain full range of motion and strengthen surrounding muscles.

Surgery

PCL injuries are not sent for surgical intervention as frequently as ACL injuries. Only those with other associated injuries such as meniscus tears are usually sent for surgery. If conservative treatment fails to provide enough support for the knee joint, then surgery may also be performed later down the road.

Rehabilitation

• Rehabilitation is now becoming more accelerated, with expected return to sport within 6 months in most cases.
• Rehabilitation starts from day one after surgery or injury, with mobility exercises.
• Once movement is good, strengthening can begin

Further Information

• PCL injuries - for further information on treatment including rehabilitation, taping, sports massage, stretching and more visit sportsinjuryclinic.net