We’ve talked about the ACL, now we come upon its equally important cousin, the Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL). Like the rest of the knee ligaments, the PCL works with them all to provide stability within the knee joint. It originates from the anterior (front) part of the femur and attaches to the posterior (back) part of the tibia. The ACL, as mentioned previously, originates form the posterior part of the femur and attaches to the anterior part of the tibia.
The PCL is important in ensuring stability within the joint by stopping the posterior movement of the tibia in respect of the femur.
Injury to the PCL is less common than an ACL injury. PCL tears are usually due to direct blows to a bent knee. This could be when you have an accident and your knee receives a direct blow from the dashboard. You may also be tackled in certain ball sports, while having your knees bent. Another common method is through extreme hyperextension.
Regardless of the cause, it is imperative that you get your injured knee looked at by a trusted physiotherapist. Prolonged sport activity is usually impossible due to pain as well as instability within the knee. Patients would normally report of a poorly localized posterior pain that is deep within the joint. Depending on the severity of the injury, your rehabilitation will differ. Conservative management is usually done before surgical intervention is advised. However, please talk to your physio before you make your next move.
Our physios at Capital Physiotherapy will ensure that you are looked after from the start. This means making sure we not only confirm a PCL tear, but also rule out other injuries. We will also provide a treatment plan that will include the goal of you going back to your chosen sport. This plan will include what we need to do, what exercises you require and many more important details to get you back to your best. By getting your injured knee early, you will have the best outcome quickly!
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us and we would love to be a part of your journey back living your life the way you want it to be!