Can a complete PCL tear heal itself?

PCL injuries are usually partial ligament tears, and typically heal on their own, without causing stability issues, so long as the knee is protected during healing, and there are no other knee joint injuries.

How long do PCL tears 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.

What is a full thickness PCL tear?

A PCL injury occurs when the ligament is stretched or torn. A partial PCL tear occurs when only part of the ligament is torn. A complete PCL tear occurs when the entire ligament is torn into two pieces.

How do you strengthen your PCL?

Quad sets

1. Sit with your affected leg straight and supported on the floor or a firm bed. Place a small, rolled-up towel under your knee.
2. Tighten the thigh muscles of your affected leg by pressing the back of your knee down into the towel.
3. Hold for about 6 seconds, then rest for up to 10 seconds.
4. Repeat 8 to 12 times.

How long does a Grade 1 PCL tear take to heal?

A grade 1 sprain typically takes 10 days to heal completely while a grade 2 sprain takes about 3 weeks. Depending on the severity, an athlete can return to sport from anywhere 2-8 weeks after the injury but fortunately there are no other injuries to the knee to complicate the recovery.

How do you fix a PCL tear?

Surgical repair of a PCL tear includes replacing the ligament with new tissue, either from a deceased donor or from another structure within the patient’s leg. Post-operative treatment should include physical therapy rehabilitation focused on improving range of motion and strength around the knee joint.

How do you treat a torn PCL?

Treatment of a PCL Tear 1 Initial treatment of the pain and swelling consists of the use of crutches, ice, and elevation. Once these symptoms have settled, physical therapy is beneficial to improve knee motion and strength. Nonoperative treatment is recommended for most grade I and grade II PCL tears.