Nonoperative Treatment of PCL Injuries: Goals of Rehabilitation and the Natural History of Conservative Care

Abstract

Purpose of Review: To review the current practices of nonoperative management of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries, the natural history of conservative care, and the latest PCL rehabilitation strategies. Recent Findings: PCL injuries often occur as part of a multiligamentous knee injury and occasionally occur in isolation. Although patients may be able to tolerate or compensate for a PCL-deficient knee, long-term outcomes after conservative care demonstrate a high rate of arthrosis in the medial and patellofemoral compartments resulting from altered knee kinematics and loads. Good subjective outcomes and a high rate of return to sport have been reported after nonoperative treatment of isolated PCL injuries. However, PCL laxity grade on objective exam does not typically correlate with subjective outcomes, nor does it correlate with the risk of developing osteoarthritis. Although more research is needed on the optimal PCL rehabilitation strategies, general principles include avoiding posterior tibial translation in the initial period to optimize ligament healing, followed by progressive range of motion and strengthening of the quadriceps and core musculature. At 12 weeks, patients may begin an interval running program, followed by agility work and progressive sports-specific training to allow for return to sports. Summary: Nonoperative treatment of isolated PCL injuries results in good subjective outcomes and high rate of return to sport.