Patient Information Resources


Orthogate
1089 Spadina Road
Toronto, AL M5N 2M7
Ph: 416-483-2654
Fax: 416-483-2654
christian@orthogate.com






Ankle
Child Orthopedics
Elbow
Foot
General
Hand
Hip
Knee
Shoulder
Spine - Cervical
Spine - Lumbar
Spine - Thoracic
Wrist

View Web RX

« Back

I've heard a lot about ACL tears in the knee. Are PCL tears just as bad?

There are two major ligaments in the knee joint: the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). By far, the ACL is injured or damaged more often than the PCL. Not as much is known about what happens when the PCL is torn. A recent study in Germany tracked 181 patients with PCL tears who did not have surgery to repair the injury. They found that damage to the joint cartilage after a PCL tear is common. In fact, more than half of all patients with a PCL tear develop cartilage damage and arthritis after that. After a PCL tear, there is a change in where the knee joint comes together during movement. A weak PCL causes more pressure on the inside edge of the knee. Higher loads and greater force act on the cartilage. The cartilage gets worn down and damaged.

References:

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.