What is a posterior cruciate ligament injury?
The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia) and runs along the back of your leg. It supports knee movement and prevents the tibia from sliding too far backward behind the femur. A PCL injury, sometimes called a hyperextended knee, happens when the ligament is stretched or torn.
Physical therapists can often treat mild PCL injuries. For more severe cases requiring surgery, an orthopedic surgeon may repair the torn ligament. Penn Orthopaedics specialists offer a full range of knee surgeries and nonsurgical treatments for knee pain, offering individualized care plans to help you return to your regular activities as soon as possible.
Symptoms of posterior cruciate ligament injuries
A PCL injury can make activities like walking or climbing stairs difficult due to the added stress on the knee. Swelling, inflammation, and tenderness behind the knee (in the popliteal fossa) are also common.
Other symptoms of a PCL tear include:
- Knee pain
- Stiffness
- Joint instability
- Bruising
What causes a PCL injury?
A PCL injury typically occurs from knee trauma where the joint is forced to move beyond its normal range of motion. This can happen in various ways, such as landing awkwardly after a jump, missing a step on stairs, or suffering a direct blow to a bent knee in a car accident. Athletes participating in contact sports like football or rugby, or those involved in activities with a high risk of falling, such as skiing or snowboarding, are also susceptible to PCL injuries.
Diagnosing a posterior cruciate ligament injury
To diagnose a PCL injury, your care provider will examine your knee joint to assess its range of motion. PCL injuries are typically classified into three grades: Grade I (partial tear), Grade II (complete tear), and Grade III (severe tear). Advanced imaging tests are often ordered to confirm the tear and determine the extent of the damage.
Treating posterior cruciate ligament injuries
PCL injuries require prompt first aid, including icing, immobilizing the knee with a splint, and elevating the joint to reduce swelling. Your care provider may also suggest physical therapy or using crutches to limit weight-bearing on the injured leg. For severe injuries, they may recommend a minimally invasive surgical procedure to repair the damaged ligament.
World-class knee care
People across the southeastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey regions and beyond trust Penn Orthopaedics knee specialists to deliver exceptional care. Our team is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of medicine through innovative research and advanced surgical techniques. We’re committed to providing not only expert medical advice but also compassionate support throughout your treatment journey.