Posterior Cruciate Ligament Tear Recovery Timeline

Q: Posterior Cruciate Ligament Tear Recovery Timeline

Hello： In response to your questions, your attending physician will have the best understanding of your specific situation. <br>The timeline for weight-bearing after surgery, the duration for using a brace, and the adjustable angles of the brace should be guided by your attending

Tear of the posterior cruciate ligament with associated fracture?

Hello, doctor.
In mid-December, I sustained a torn posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) and an associated fracture due to a motorcycle accident.
I underwent surgery on December 21 to fixate the fracture with screws.
My attending physician mentioned that I could start bearing weight after six weeks and that full recovery would take about three months.
However, I found online that for PCL reconstruction surgery, it typically takes nine to twelve months to return to pre-injury athletic performance, and three months may only allow for a return to basic daily activities.

Since I have training scheduled for February 21, the month leading up to it will involve basic coaching activities, such as standing at attention, turning left and right, and longer periods of marching.
After a month, there may be more intense training.
If my physician's estimate of three months for recovery is accurate, I might just be able to manage the training.
However, if the recovery timeline is similar to that of ligament reconstruction, where three months only allows for a return to daily functioning, I would have to postpone my training by a year.
Therefore, I would like to ask the doctor:
1.
As I am approaching six weeks post-surgery, I am considering trying to bear weight.
Can you tell me if the strength at the fracture site is sufficient to support normal walking at this stage?
2.
If we do not take muscle and ligament strength into account, will the fracture site be able to withstand intense physical activity three months post-surgery?

Josh, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/01/31

Dr. Li Wenlin reply Orthopedics

Hello: In response to your questions, your attending physician will have the best understanding of your specific situation.
The timeline for weight-bearing after surgery, the duration for using a brace, and the adjustable angles of the brace should be guided by your attending physician.
Please ensure you attend follow-up appointments regularly.
If you are not satisfied with your attending physician, you may seek a second opinion from another orthopedic specialist.
In any case, a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and associated fractures do not simply resolve after surgery.
Post-operative care must align with medical advice regarding follow-up appointments, when you can bear weight, when you can start bending, and when to begin rehabilitation, all of which should be determined based on your condition during follow-ups and findings from follow-up X-rays.
Therefore, it is important to listen to your attending physician.
Please schedule your follow-up appointment soon! Wishing you a speedy recovery! P.S.
I personally recommend delaying training for better outcomes!

Reply Date: 2011/01/31

More Info

Recovering from a posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tear and associated injuries can be a complex process, and it's essential to understand the timeline and factors that influence recovery. Based on your situation, here are some insights and recommendations regarding your recovery timeline and readiness for training.

1. Bone Healing and Weight Bearing: After your surgery on December 21, you mentioned that your doctor indicated you could start bearing weight on your leg after six weeks. Generally, bone healing can vary based on several factors, including the type of fracture, your age, overall health, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols. By the six-week mark, many patients can begin to bear weight, but this should be done cautiously. It’s crucial to follow your surgeon's advice and possibly use assistive devices like crutches or a walker initially to ensure you do not put undue stress on the healing bone. Your doctor may also recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays, to assess the healing progress before you start walking.

2. Strength and Functionality: While the bone may be healing, the strength of the surrounding muscles and ligaments is equally important for a full recovery. Even if the bone is strong enough to support weight, the muscles and ligaments may not be ready for the demands of more vigorous activities. Typically, after three months, many patients can return to daily activities, but returning to high-impact sports or activities that require sudden changes in direction may take longer. The timeline of nine to twelve months for full recovery is often cited for PCL reconstructions because it allows time for the ligaments to regain strength and stability.

3. Gradual Progression: As you approach your training in February, it’s essential to listen to your body and not rush the recovery process. If your training involves basic movements like standing at attention and turning, you may be able to participate, but you should avoid any activities that could put excessive strain on your knee. If you experience pain, swelling, or instability, it’s a sign that you may need to scale back or modify your activities.

4. Rehabilitation: Engaging in a structured rehabilitation program is critical. This program should focus on restoring range of motion, strengthening the muscles around the knee, and improving balance and proprioception. Working with a physical therapist can help ensure that you are progressing appropriately and safely.

5. Long-term Considerations: After your initial recovery, it’s important to continue strengthening exercises and possibly engage in low-impact activities like swimming or cycling before returning to high-impact sports. This gradual approach can help prevent re-injury and ensure that your knee is ready for the demands of more intense training.

In summary, while your doctor may have indicated that you can start bearing weight after six weeks, it’s essential to consider the overall strength and functionality of your knee before engaging in more vigorous activities. Always consult with your healthcare provider or physical therapist before making decisions about your training to ensure that you are progressing safely and effectively. Remember, patience and adherence to rehabilitation protocols are key to a successful recovery.

Similar Q&A

Optimal Timing for Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Surgery

I sustained a possible anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear on May 14th due to a dance move that caused me to hit the floor (while wearing knee pads). I am currently waiting for an MRI. I heard from a certain instructor that if a ligament is torn and surgery is not performed qui...

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics
Hello, generally speaking, it is best to perform surgery for a torn posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) approximately two months after the injury. Thank you.

Rehabilitation Methods for ACL Injury: Return to Sports Timeline

Hello Dr. Lee, what rehabilitation methods are available for a "loose" anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)? How many months does it typically take to return to playing with a racket and enjoying the game on the court?

Dr. Li Wenlin reply Orthopedics
Hello: The cruciate ligaments consist of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). The treatment for cruciate ligament injuries depends on whether there is a complete tear, significant laxity, or mild laxity, which will determine whether surg...

Rehabilitation Options for Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injury

Hello Doctor: I have a torn posterior cruciate ligament. The swelling has subsided, but I still have difficulty lifting my foot. Can surgery to reconstruct the posterior cruciate ligament really restore ligament stability? Or would rehabilitation therapy to strengthen the muscles...

Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. Young patients with a torn posterior cruciate ligament should consider surgical treatment followed by rehabilitation. 2. It is advisable to first go to a medical center for isokinetic testing and training to prevent injuries and ensure high accuracy. 3. After surgery, a br...

Recovery and Rehabilitation After Knee Ligament Tear: What to Expect

I sustained a ligament tear in my left knee due to an accident in mid-April. After treatment, the wound on my left leg has healed, but I am still having difficulty walking. How long does it typically take to recover, and should I consider physical therapy?

Dr. Ye Qingnian reply Orthopedics
The knee ligaments include the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL), and medial collateral ligament (MCL). It is unclear which one is ruptured. Generally, tears of the ACL, PCL, and LCL require surgical interventio...