Medical Library
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Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Tear
The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is stronger and less commonly injured. Motor vehicle accident, when the knee(s) forcefully impact the car dashboard, is a common mechanism of injury. Initial treatment includes rest, ice, elevation, and compression. Physical therapy consisting of progressive strengthening and functional exercise may facilitate recovery. Surgery is not typically required.
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Possible Treatments
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Aerobic/Endurance Exercise
Video
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Core Strengthening
Video
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Cryotherapy or Cold Therapy
Video
- Electrotherapeutic Modalities
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Isometric Exercise
Video
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Knee Active Range of Motion
Video
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Knee Passive Range of Motion
Video
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Knee Resistive Range of Motion
Video
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Proprioception Exercises
Video
- Physical Agents
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Soft Tissue Mobilization
Video
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Stretching/Flexibility Exercise
Video
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Aerobic/Endurance Exercise
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Possible Treatment Goals
- Improve Balance
- Improve ability to bear weight/stand on the leg(s)
- Decrease Risk of Reoccurrence
- Improve Fitness
- Improve Function
- Improve Muscle Strength and Power
- Increase Oxygen to Tissues
- Improve Proprioception
- Improve Range of Motion
- Self-care of Symptoms
- Improve Tolerance for Prolonged Activities
- Improve Wound Healing
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Additional Resources
- 3d Anatomy of the Knee
- Knee Info from Medline Plus
Knee Articles
- Quadriceps Muscle Strains
- Meniscal Tears
- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tear
- Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Tear
- Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Tear
- Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Tears
- Anterior Knee Pain
- Patello-femoral Pain (Commonly Called Chondromalacia Patella)
- Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper's Knee)
- Knee Osteoarthritis
- Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome (ITBS)
- Knee Replacement
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The information in this medical library is intended for informational and educational purposes only and in no way should be taken to be the provision or practice of physical therapy, medical, or professional healthcare advice or services. The information should not be considered complete or exhaustive and should not be used for diagnostic or treatment purposes without first consulting with your physical therapist, occupational therapist, physician or other healthcare provider. The owners of this website accept no responsibility for the misuse of information contained within this website.