For many years, the knowledge and treatment of the Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) have been seriously destitute. Many injuries occur in the PCL's closely related ligament, the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL). Doctors are looking into tests, and treatments for PCL injuries, but a PCL tear is not common enough to recieve the amount of information needed for proper treatment.
PCL tears are most common in soccer players and football players. A PCL tear often occurs after a traumatic situation, such as a car accident, or a strong blow to the anterior part of the knee. It can cause the shinbone to be pushed backward, and the knee to be pushed from anterior to posterior, placing a great amount of stress on the PCL.
If an athlete tears their PCL, without damaging any other cartilage in the knee, than the pain would be less severe. Some athletes may not know that they have a torn PCL until strong pain is felt when approching a full stride in running, or in the attempt to decelerate. After an isolated PCL tear, physical therapy will be needed, but surgery is not always necessary.
When the PCL is torn along with other tissues, surgery is necessary, and the injury is much more severe. Most PCL injuries involve damaged cartilage along with the torn ligament. Some people experience osteoarthritis in their knees after a PCL injury. The most important recovery plan after a torn PCL, is a strict exercise program, and regular visits to physical therapy.