Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injury

You won’t often hear of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries. It is more likely that the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) will suffer injury, largely due to greater vulnerability. Both ligaments connect the shinbone to the thighbone. Injuries to these ligaments usually result in knee pain, inflammation and loss of stability.

If you suffer a PCL injury, the likelihood of experiencing instability in the knee is not as high as with an ACL injury. However, taking part in sports or similar activities is not recommended for a number of months to allow for sufficient healing. Any attempt to return to normal activities without a period of recovery will exacerbate the injury.

You will benefit from excellence in consultation, clinical examination and treatment when you visit Silicon Valley Orthopaedics in California. Both Dr. Nic Gay and Dr. Masi Reynolds have extensive knowledge in sports medicine and orthopedic surgery.

PCL Injury Symptoms

The pain from a PCL injury is not usually as severe as you would experience with an ACL injury. Mild to moderate pain is focused around the knee, resulting in instability when in motion. Swelling from a PCL injury is rapid onset. Within a few hours of the injury, swelling and instability can cause the knee to feel like it is going to give way when you put weight on the affected limb.

Your pain may not present in any significant way if there are no associated injuries. Severe symptoms indicate that a more severe injury has occurred. Milder symptoms that worsen with time usually indicate a PCL injury in isolation.

Contact Silicon Valley Orthopaedics today to arrange a comprehensive examination with Dr. Nic Gay or Dr. Masi Reynolds. An early examination and treatment for a PCL injury may improve recovery and healing outcomes, in addition to identifying associated injuries.