PCL injuries commonly occur in sports such as **football, soccer, basketball, and skiing**. A **forceful hyperextension of the knee** or a **direct blow just below the knee cap** can disrupt the PCL, leading to knee pain and injury.

For example:

• A **football player** who gets tackled with a direct hit to the knee may **hyperextend** the limb and sustain a **PCL injury**.
• A **basketball player** landing directly on a **bent knee** could tear their PCL, resulting in knee pain.

• **Pain** in the knee
• A feeling of **instability** in the knee

Nonsurgical Treatment

If you have **only injured the PCL**, your knee may **heal without surgery**. Your doctor may recommend the following nonsurgical options:

• RICE Therapy: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation can help reduce swelling and speed up recovery.
• Immobilization: A **brace** may be used to prevent knee movement, and **crutches** may be recommended to avoid putting weight on the leg.
• Physical Therapy: After swelling decreases, a **rehabilitation program** can help restore **knee function** and strengthen the **quadriceps and leg muscles**.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be necessary if you have **multiple ligament injuries**, such as a **knee dislocation with combined ligament tears**, including the PCL.

• Rebuilding the Ligament: A torn PCL is typically **rebuilt using a tissue graft**, either from your **own body** or a **cadaver**. The graft takes **months to fully heal** into the bone.
• Minimally Invasive Procedure: Surgery is performed **arthroscopically** using **small incisions**, which results in:
  • **Less pain**
  • **Quicker recovery**
  • **Shorter hospital stays**
• Advancements in Surgical Techniques: Improved methods allow for better **post-surgery mobility**, enabling patients to **resume a wider range of activities** after rehabilitation.