ABOUT THE DISEASE
The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is the strongest of the four major ligaments that are responsible for stabilizing the knee. It is specifically responsible for preventing the shinbone (tibia) from displacing to the back (posteriorly). A posterior cruciate ligament injury is a partial or complete tearing or stretching of any part of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL).
SYMPTOMS
- • Knee swelling within 6 hours
- • Inability to straighten the knee
- • Knee joint instability and pain
- • Pop sound at the time of the injury
- • In some cases locking of the knee
CAUSES
Mostly caused due to a direct impact to bent knee as in contact sports such as soccer, or due to any accident. It can also be caused due to overextending the knee (hyperextension). This can happen on landing awkwardly after jumping.
DIAGNOSIS
- Physical examination
- Knee X-Ray
- Knee MRI
TREATMENT METHODS
Treatment initially involves the use of ice and medication to help reduce pain and inflammation. Elevating the joint (above the level of the heart) & taking anti inflammatory medicines along with use of crutches to walk around, is advised.
Physiotherapy to perform strengthening and stretching exercises to regain function of the knee is very essential. A brace to help stabilize the knee might also be considered.
Arthroscopic ligament repair may be attempted in cases with severe grade of injury or those associated with a tear of another ligament of the knee that can be surgically repaired (the anterior cruciate ligament).
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