Knee injuries are common, especially among athletes and active individuals. Two of the most well-known ligament injuries are posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tears and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears. While both affect knee stability, they differ in causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches. Understanding these differences can help you seek the right care and recover effectively.
PCL Tear vs. ACL Tear: Key Differences
The PCL and ACL are crucial ligaments that stabilize the knee joint. The PCL (located at the back of the knee) prevents the shinbone from moving too far backward, while the ACL (at the front) prevents excessive forward movement of the shinbone. PCL tears are far less common than ACL tears.
Causes
- PCL Tear: PCL tears often result from a direct blow to the front of the knee, such as during a car accident (dashboard injury) or a fall onto a bent knee.
- ACL Tear: ACL tears commonly occur due to sudden stops, pivoting/changing direction, or direct impact with awkward landings, especially in sports like basketball, soccer, and football.
Symptoms
- PCL Tear Symptoms: Mild swelling and pain that builds quickly and steadily after the injury, stiffness, difficulty walking, decreased range of motion, and instability.
- ACL Tear Symptoms: A “popping” sensation or sound at the event of injury, immediate swelling, pain, stiffness, difficulty bearing weight, and instability.
Treatment Options
Treatment for both injuries depends on severity, activity level, and long-term goals. PCL tears may heal with conservative treatments, while ACL tears often require surgery to prevent recurrent instability and damage.
- PCL Tear Treatments: Conservative treatments include RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation), immobilization, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. If the PCL tear is severe, involves multiple ligaments, or affected the underlying bone, arthroscopic knee reconstruction surgery may be necessary.
- ACL Tear Treatments: Treatments include physical therapy (often performed before and after surgery), immobilization (before and after surgery), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and for most patients, arthroscopic ACL reconstruction surgery to restore stability.
When to See a Specialist
If you experience knee pain, swelling, and/or instability after an injury, consult an orthopedic specialist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Early intervention helps prevent further damage and supports a smoother recovery.
For expert evaluation and treatment for knee injuries, visit Orange Orthopedic Medical Group. Call (714) 538-8549 or contact us online today.