Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injury
What is Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injury?
The posterior cruciate ligament is located in the back of the knee. It is one of several ligaments that connect the femur (thighbone) to the tibia (shinbone). The posterior cruciate ligament keeps the tibia from moving backwards too far.
Symptoms of Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injury
- Pain with swelling
- Swelling that makes the knee stiff and may cause a limp
- Difficulty in walking
- The knee feels unstable, like it may “give way”
Causes of Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injury
- A direct blow to the front of the knee
- Pulling or stretching the ligament
Treatment for Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injury
- Using R.I.C.E,
Rest: Stop all activity, to prevent the strain to worsen
Ice: Apply ice to reduce swelling
Compression: Wrap the strained area to reduce swelling
Elevation: Keep the it as close to the level of the heart as to keep blood from pooling in the injured area - Physio-Therapy
- Surgical Treatment