Is a PCL tear serious?

A PCL injury can cause mild, moderate or severe damage.

How long does a PCL tear take to heal?

The duration for a PCL injury also depends on the severity of the sprain, but typically full recovery is achieved between 4 to 12 months.

Does a grade 3 PCL tear require surgery?

Generally, on examination, there is looseness in moving the shin bone forwards on the thigh bone – also called Lachman’s test. Typically, ACL rupture requires surgical reconstruction in young people, while most PCL tears can be treated without surgery.

Is PCL worse than ACL?

Although it is larger and stronger than the ACL, the PCL can be torn. PCL tears make up less than 20% of injuries to knee ligaments. Injuries that tear the PCL often damage some of the other ligaments or cartilage in the knee, as well.

Can a PCL tear get worse?

With a PCL injury, you may have: Mild pain that may get worse over time. Your knee is unstable and can shift as if it “gives way” Knee swelling that starts right after the injury.

How painful is a PCL tear?

A PCL sprain or tear may result in moderate pain. The amount of discomfort, stiffness and swelling that follow a posterior cruciate ligament injury is not always substantial, and many PCL injuries are initially diagnosed as knee sprains.

Can you bend your knee with a torn PCL?

Swelling may cause the knee to become stiff. A person may have trouble bending the knee, resulting in a limp or difficulty going up or down stairs. Difficulty bearing weight. The injured knee may be difficult or painful to stand or walk on, especially for long periods of time.

Can u walk with a torn PCL?

Like most ligament tears, a torn PCL is typically observed with swelling and pain. Usually the swelling is located in the back of the knee, and in some cases there may be bruising. Some patients may have difficulty walking, and in severe cases, the knee may feel unstable like it’s “giving out”.

Can you live with a torn PCL?

A lot of people can live and function normally with only a torn PCL. However, if you are younger, having a torn PCL and instability of your knee may lead to arthritis as you age. Talk with your doctor about the best treatment for you.