Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Sprain

Posterior Cruciate Ligament

One of the four major ligaments of the knee

Attaches to the femur and travels within the knee joint to the upper surface of the tibia

The two cruciate ligaments (ACL and PCL) pass each other in the middle of the joint forming a cross shape. This configuration allows the PCL to resist forces pushing the tibia posteriorly relative to the femur.

PCL SprainDirect impact to the front of the tibia

usually when the knee is bent.

Front-on tackle or collision

Commonly associated with injuries to other structures in the rear compartment of the knee joint such as lateral meniscus tears. In addition the articular cartilage may also be damaged.

Symptoms of a PCL SprainPain at the time of impact which, over

time, may also be felt in the calf region.

Swelling

Pain when the posterior cruciate ligament is stressed.

Positive sign on the 'Posterior draw test'.

Instability of the joint,

Left knee-joint from behind

Posterior Drawer TestExaminer sits on patient's feet and

grasps the patient's tibia and pulls it forward (anterior drawer test) or backward (posterior drawer test).

If the tibia pulls forward or backward more than normal, the test is considered positive.

Excessive posterior displacement of the tibia indicates that the PCL is likely torn.

Treating PCL SprainR.I.C.E.

◦rest, ice, compression, and elevation.Conservative treatment

◦ice and heat treatment, electrotherapy, and rehab exercise programs

Knee support or brace in early to mid stages of the injury