Definition

The posterior cruciate ligament, or PCL, is a piece of connective tissue located within the knee near the back. The PCL connects the thighbone to the shinbone, and keeps the shinbone from moving too far backward.

When a strong force (such as during a sports activity or other high-stress activity) is applied to the PCL, the ligament can become strained or torn.

While an injury to the PCL requires extensive treatment and rehabilitation, the injury is treatable and rarely causes long-term serious complications. Complete recovery usually takes six months.

Posterior Cruciate Ligament

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.

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In order to gain a basic understanding of what a posterior cruciate ligament injury is, it helps to know what exactly a ligament is. In short, ligaments are the strong bands of tissue ...

Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injury: What You Knee'd to Know
By Ann Butenas on March 19, 2010 - 7:03am
Dr. Harner describes the symptoms a patient with a posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) would experience.

PCL Tear, What Are The Symptoms? - Dr. Harner (VIDEO)
By Dr. Christopher Harner Expert on July 8, 2009 - 12:09pm

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