Free Body Physical Therapy offers Sports Physical Therapy in Chicago. We specialize in neck and shoulder pain, sports rehabilitation, preventative assessments, and pre and post-surgery rehabilitation. In addition, sports injuries, such as posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries, can be examined and addressed by our knee specialist in Chicago.
What is a PCL Injury?
The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) connects your femur to your tibia, keeping the knee joint stable. Unfortunately, a tear, sprain, or strain can occur to the PCL. Although the PCL is the least common ligament in the knee to be injured, it is still possible to be damaged. If you have hurt your PCL, we strongly advise you to see our knee specialist in Chicago.
Causes of PCL Injuries
PCL injuries commonly occur during contact sports, such as football or soccer, or auto accidents. The ligament is injured when there is a strike to the knee while it is bent, you hit your shin bone just below the knee, or by hyperextension. If you injure your PCL, other ligaments in the knee can be affected as well.
Specific examples of these incidents include:
- Impacting the knee against the dashboard during an auto accident
- Falling on the knee while it is bent, possibly during sports
- Pulling or stretching the ligament
- Simple misstep
Preventing a PCL Injury
To prevent an injury to your PCL and having to see a knee specialist in Chicago, follow the advice below:
- Use proper technique and alignment during physical activities
- Stretch regularly
- Strengthen leg muscles to stabilize the joint
- Use caution when playing sports where knee injuries are common
Symptoms of a PCL Injury
Depending on the extent of the PCL injury, pain can range from mild to severe. Symptoms of a torn, sprained, or strained PCL may include:
- Swelling in the knee
- Pain in the knee joint
- Instability in the knee
- Difficulty walking
If you have injured your PCL and are experiencing these symptoms, schedule an appointment to see our knee specialist in Chicago at Free Body Physical Therapy. You’ll receive personalized care and attention at each session and be educated based on your needs.