MCL and PCL Injuries
Knee Treatments
What Causes MCL and PCL Injuries?
The MCL (Medial Cruciate Ligament) and PCL (Posterior Cruciate Ligament) are two of the four ligaments (ACL, MCL, PCL and LCL) that provide stability to the knee as well as prevent the knee from extending too far in a specific direction. The MCL and/or PCL are often injured during sports or activities when the knee is forcefully twisted to one side or is pushed backwards due to a direct blow to the knee. The MCL and/or PCL can also be injured when there is a simultaneous injury to the ACL.
If you have an MCL or PCL injury, the symptoms can include:
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Pain in the knee
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Swelling
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Bruising
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A feeling of “catching” or “buckling” of the knee
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An audible “pop” at the moment of injury
The Board Certified Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Specialists at OSS Health have helped thousands of patients with MCL or PCL injuries return to an active and healthy lifestyle using a variety of treatment options.
How are MCL and PCL Injuries Treated at OSS Health?
In many cases, MCL and PCL injuries do not require surgery unless the ligament is completely torn. In these cases, your OSS Health Specialist may recommend conservative treatment options to allow the ligaments to heal.
These treatment options can include:
- Physical Therapy
- Bracing or immobilization
- Anti-inflammatory medications
If the ligament is torn or not completely attached to its correct position within the knee, your OSS Health Specialist may recommend a surgical procedure to reconstruct the ligament using a graft from another tendon in the body. Small sutures, screws or anchors may also be used to reattach the tendon to its correct position.