Return to Play after Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries

This article provides a review of the current treatments for posterior cruciate ligament injuries and the respective rehabilitation protocols, outcomes after each treatment option, and specific return to play criteria.Recent FindingsCurrent research shows excellent outcomes and return to play with conservative treatment of isolated posterior cruciate ligament injuries. Return to play algorithms stress the importance of quadriceps strengthening throughout the recovery process and emphasize inclusion of plyometrics and sport-specific training.SummaryRehabilitation plays a critical role in the outcome after posterior cruciate ligament injury and the ability to return to athletics. The primary focus of post-injury or post-operative rehabilitation is to restore function, as it relates to range of motion, strength, and proprioception, while mitigating swelling and pain. The patients ’ desired sport and level of play dictate return to play timelines. The literature supports the use of non-operative management of isolated PCL injuries in athletes and non-athletes with excellent functional and patient-reported outcomes.
Source: Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine - Category: Orthopaedics Source Type: research