A posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury are less common than ACL injuries because the PCL is much broader and much stronger. This tear is most common with sports such as skiing, soccer, and football. The most frequent mechanism of PCL injury is a direct blow to the anterior aspect of the proximal tibia when the knee is flexed, resulting in posterior translation of the tibia platform. Hyperextension and rotational or varus/valgus stress mechanisms may also be responsible for PCL tears. A PCL injury can also result from a car accident in which a posterior force is applied to the tibia when the flexed knee hits the dashboard AKA "Dashboard injury". Also a bad landing from a jump, a simple misstep or fast changes of direction can result in a PCL injury. . Closed chain exercises are recommended for grade I and II PCL injuries. They do not only increase muscle strength, but also have a positive effect on balance, proprioception and coordination. Once the strength and endurance has been regained and the neuromuscular control has been increased, the patient can move on to an agility based program. . Shown here includes: -Hamstring and Calf Stretch -Many different ways to strengthen the quadriceps. Stronger the quadriceps gets= Less stress on the PCL. . Always consult with a healthcare provider prior to attempting any of these exercises after a PCL tear. Citation: . -Kovacs et al. Posterior Cruciate Ligament injury clinical presntation. 1994 . -Lee et al. Rupture of Posterior Cruciate Ligament: Diagnosis and treatment principles. 2011. -Wind et al. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2004.
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