Understanding a PCL leg injury

The posterior cruciate ligament runs inside the knee and helps control backward movement of the shin bone. Injury can follow a direct impact to the front of the knee, a fall onto a bent knee, or a forceful twist. Some people notice symptoms immediately; others mainly notice swelling, reduced confidence on stairs, or difficulty slowing down. Damage to nearby structures can add locking, tenderness, or a different pattern of instability.

Reduce running, jumping, deep squats, and uneven-ground activities while symptoms are active. Keep movement within a comfortable range and use walking support only as advised. An individual plan may progress from swelling management to quadriceps strengthening, balance, and activity-specific control. Knee Bracing can be discussed for selected situations, and Physiotherapy can adjust exercise as strength and stability change.

Arrange an assessment after a significant knee impact or when instability affects walking, stairs, work, or sport. Seek urgent care if the leg is visibly deformed, the knee cannot move, pain is severe, or the foot develops numbness, weakness, coldness, or unusual colour.

Ask which structures appear injured, what activities are safe today, whether a brace is appropriate, and what strength or stability milestones should come before returning to your normal routine.