PCL Tear

PCL Tear (Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injury)

By Dr. Kanta Prasad (MBBS, MS – Orthopaedics)

What Is an PCL Tear?

The Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) is one of the key ligaments that stabilize the knee joint, preventing the tibia (shin bone) from moving backward. A PCL tear occurs when this ligament is injured, leading to knee pain, instability, and difficulty in movement.

PCL injuries are less common than ACL tears and are often caused by high-impact trauma.

Causes & Risk Factors

PCL tears typically occur due to:

  • Road traffic accidents (dashboard injury)

  • Fall on a bent knee

  • Direct blow to the front of the knee

  • Sports injuries (football, kabaddi, wrestling)

  • High-impact trauma

    • Symptoms of PCL Tear

      Common symptoms include:

      • Pain at the back of the knee

      • Knee swelling and stiffness

      • Difficulty walking downhill or downstairs

      • Feeling of knee instability or weakness

      • Reduced knee motion

Diagnosis

Dr. Kanta Prasad evaluates PCL injuries through:

  • Detailed clinical examination and special knee tests

  • X-rays to rule out fractures

  • MRI scan to confirm PCL tear and assess associated injuries (ACL, meniscus, cartilage)

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the grade of tear, associated injuries, and activity level.

1. Non-Surgical Treatment

Most isolated Grade I and II PCL tears respond well to conservative treatment:

  • Knee brace support

  • Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medicines

  • Physiotherapy to strengthen quadriceps muscles

  • Gradual return to activity

2. Surgical Treatment

Surgery is recommended for:

  • Complete (Grade III) PCL tears

  • Persistent knee instability

  • Combined ligament injuries

  • Athletes and physically demanding individuals

Arthroscopic PCL Reconstruction

  • Minimally invasive keyhole surgery

  • Torn PCL is reconstructed using tendon grafts

  • Restores knee stability and function

Recovery & Rehabilitation

  • Brace support in the initial phase

  • Structured physiotherapy program is essential

  • Return to daily activities in 8–10 weeks

  • Return to sports in 6–9 months

  • Excellent outcomes with proper rehabilitation

When to Consult an Orthopedic Specialist

  • Knee pain after accident or fall

  • Difficulty walking or knee instability

  • Swelling that does not improve

  • Sports-related knee injuries


Make an Appointment

Our Specialities

Shoulder Injury

Shoulder Injury

Sports Injury

Orthopedic Treatment

Bone Treatment

Hospital Address

Apex Ranthambore Sevika Hospital

Address:

Apex Ranthambore Sevika Hospital, Vinayak Nagar, Housing Board, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan

Consulting Hours:

Monday – Saturday – 10:00am – 05:00pm

Phone:

+91 9782047038

Email:

drkp06@gmail.com

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