In plain language
The PCL restrains backward tibial movement; injury can cause posterior laxity.
Clinical Significance & Management
Identify combined ligament, bone and neurovascular injuries.
Symptoms & Clinical Presentation
Pain, swelling and instability, sometimes on stairs or slopes.
Etiology & Injury Mechanisms
- A blow to the shin with a bent knee, a fall onto the knee or hyperextension.
Diagnostics & Imaging Guide
Clinician-performed posterior drawer and sag tests, with indicated X-rays and MRI.
Treatment Options
Bracing and rehabilitation or reconstruction depending on symptoms and associated injuries.
Rehabilitation Milestones & Timeline
Rehabilitation depends on the diagnosis, procedure and associated injuries. Progression requires assessment of healing, symptoms and function; elapsed time or a single test cannot determine readiness for sport.
Rehabilitation progression
Protect against posterior sag and restore quadriceps strength; individualize hamstring loading and sport progression.
Evidence-Based Clarifications
Some isolated injuries respond to rehabilitation; MRI alone does not determine surgery.
Sources & References
Educational clinical definitions synthesized from AAOS, Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, and HSS. Individual diagnosis and surgery require professional medical evaluation.
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