The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is a strong ligament that connects the shinbone to the thighbone at the back of the knee joint. It helps to stabilize the knee and prevent it from bending backward too far. However, if this ligament gets overstretched or torn, it can lead to a PCL sprain. This type of injury is less common than other types of knee injuries, but it can still occur due to sudden impacts or falls. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how you can recognize the signs and symptoms of a PCL sprain and what treatment options are available.
Pain and Swelling – One of the most common symptoms of a PCL sprain is pain in the back of your knee joint. The pain may be sharp or dull and can become worse when you try to bend your knee or put weight on it. You may also experience swelling around the affected area, which can make it difficult for you to move your leg.
Difficulty Walking – If you have a severe PCL sprain, you may find that walking becomes challenging. You may feel like your leg is unstable or weak and may need crutches to get around.
Limited Range of Motion – Another sign that you may have a PCL sprain is limited range of motion in your knee joint. You may find that you can’t extend your leg fully or bend it as much as usual without feeling pain.
Instability – A significant symptom of a PCL sprain is instability in your knee joint. You might feel like your knee is giving out from under you when standing up or walking upstairs.
Diagnosis – To diagnose a PCL sprain, consult with either a physiotherapist or chiropractor who will typically take an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan to evaluate the severity of your injury. They may also perform a physical examination to assess your range of motion and stability.
If you suspect that you have a PCL sprain, it’s essential to seek medical attention right away. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can evaluate your injury and recommend treatment options to help alleviate your pain and promote healing. Treatment may include rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), physiotherapy exercises, and in some cases surgery. The more you know about the signs and symptoms of PCL sprains, the better equipped you’ll be to recognize them if they occur. Remember always to listen to your body and take appropriate action when necessary.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Laura Rashty, BSc, DC, or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
