PCL Injury Treatment in South Jersey: Know Your Options
An injury to the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) can be extremely painful and damaging to the knee. As one of the four ligaments that maintain proper knee function, the PCL is often described as a stabilizer for the knee joint, connecting the top of the tibia (shin bone) to the bottom of the femur (thigh bone). When a forceful impact or hyperextension of the PCL occurs, typically as a result of a sports injury, it can be very painful. Depending on the extent of the injury, it may require surgery. If you suspect that your knee pain may be the result of damage to your PCL, you should talk to your doctor about PCL injury treatment in South Jersey.
Two Types of PCL Injury Treatment in South Jersey
Depending on the extent of damage to the posterior cruciate ligament, your PCL treatment may or may not require surgery. At Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, our orthopedic physicians typically treat PCL injuries with one of two approaches:
Non-operative PCL Treatment: Successful in many PCL injury cases, various non-surgical measures can be taken to completely heal the ligament and restore its function. This treatment includes stabilizing the joint while controlling the swelling and pain. A knee brace prevents the tibia from posterior translation, and physical therapy strengthens the quadriceps while preventing hamstring movements that may further damage the PCL.
Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: For patients who suffer from extreme PCL laxity, the ligament must be reconstructed by using a graft from the patient or a donor. The new ligament is drilled to the tibia and femur, at which point it will require 10 to 12 months to heal before returning to sports or other strenuous activity. Crutches and a brace are required for a period of time, as well.
For more information on PCL injury treatment in South Jersey, contact Rothman Orthopaedic Institute. Our physicians are happy to talk with you about your condition and your options for treatment.
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