A posterior cruciate ligament injury is due to significant trauma to the knee. It is important to note that the posterior cruciate ligament is one of the strongest knee ligaments. It is responsible for keeping the joint stable, especially the rear of the joint. An injury might be due to spraining, straining or tearing of any part of the ligament.
The injury can also occur from a direct strike to the knee while it is bent. This includes landing hard during sports, falls or during a vehicular accident.
Indications
The indications of a posterior cruciate ligament injury can be minor or severe depending on the severity. There are no symptoms present if the ligament is minimally sprained. In case of a partial or full tear of the ligament, the usual symptoms that might arise include:
- Swollen knee
The indications of a posterior cruciate ligament injury can be minor or severe depending on the severity. - Tenderness in the knee, usually at the back part
- Pain and swelling of the joint
- Difficulty walking
Management of posterior cruciate ligament injury
When it comes to a minor posterior cruciate ligament injury, the treatment might involve the following:
- Splinting
- Application of an ice pack or cold compress
- Pain medications
- Elevating the affected knee above the level of the heart
- Limiting any physical activity until the swelling and pain has settled
- Crutches or brace to protect the joint
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation to strengthen and restore the range of movement
Prevention
There are some preventive measures that can help reduce the risk for knee ligament injury such as:
- Observing the proper technique and alignment during physical activities including walking
- Regular stretching to maintain good range of motion to the joints
- Strengthening exercises for the muscles of the lower and upper legs to stabilize the joint
- Be careful when playing sports where the risk for knee injuries is high such as skiing, football and tennis
Disclaimer / More Information
The information posted on this page on posterior cruciate ligament injury is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn more about the causes and how ligament injuries are treated, register for first aid training at one of our training centers located throughout Canada. The training centers are in Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, Kelowna, Saskatoon, Victoria, Surrey, Mississauga, Winnipeg, Red Deer, Toronto, Ottawa and Halifax.