(936) 321-8000
Contact
Knee

PCL Tear

What is the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) of the knee?

The PCL is one of the main ligaments inside the knee. It connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone) and crosses behind the ACL. The PCL helps keep the tibia from moving too far backward under the femur.

The PCL provides stability, especially during activities like walking downhill or going down stairs. It prevents backward shifting of the tibia and works with the ACL to control front-to-back knee motion.

A PCL injury is a sprain or tear of the ligament. It can range from mild stretching (Grade I) to a complete tear (Grade III). PCL injuries can occur on their own or as part of more complex knee injuries involving other ligaments.

Symptoms may include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty walking or bearing weight. Some patients feel instability or a “wobbly” sensation in the knee, particularly when descending stairs or slopes.

PCL injuries often happen from a direct blow to the front of the shin — such as hitting the dashboard in a car accident or falling directly onto the knee. They can also occur during sports that involve hyperextension or twisting.

A physical exam can reveal looseness in the knee’s backward movement. X-rays may rule out fractures, while MRI provides detailed images of the PCL and helps determine the severity of the tear and whether other structures are involved.

Many isolated PCL injuries can be treated without surgery, especially partial tears. Treatment for these includes bracing, rest, and physical therapy. Surgery is considered for complete tears, persistent instability, or when the PCL is injured along with other ligaments.

Recovery usually takes 6 to 9 months. Patients use a brace and crutches early on to protect the repair. Physical therapy progresses gradually, starting with motion and leading to strengthening. Return to sports or higher-level activity depends on healing and rehab success, as well as if there are other injuries that are treated.

At a Glance

Sachin Allahabadi, MD

  • Board-Certified & Fellowship-Trained Sports Medicine Surgeon
  • Expertise in Minimally Invasive Knee & Shoulder Surgeries
  • Assistant Professor of Clinical Orthopaedic Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital & Weill Cornell Medical College
  • Learn more
Call • (936) 321-8000
Request an Appointment

Schedule Consult