How long does it take to walk after PCL surgery?

Most people are walking reasonably comfortably by 2 weeks and can commence running in a straight line by 6 weeks. It is important not to over-exert too early after the procedure as this can increase discomfort and swelling. Other activities can be gradually reintroduced within ones level of comfort.

What is PCL reconstruction surgery?

What is PCL surgery? During a surgical posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction, your doctor removes the torn ligament. They reconstruct it with tissue taken from another part of your body or from a human donor. It can take several months for the graft to heal.

How long does a PCL reconstruction last?

A full recovery from PCL reconstruction can take anywhere between 9 months and a year, depending on the severity of the tear and if there were any other ligament injuries. Most people should be able to return to pre-injury activities. Some people may need to switch to low impact exercises, such as swimming or biking.

How much does PCL surgery cost?

On MDsave, the cost of a Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Repair or Reconstruction ranges from $10,488 to $24,149. Those on high deductible health plans or without insurance can save when they buy their procedure upfront through MDsave.

How do you sleep after PCL surgery?

3 Tips for Better Sleep After Meniscus Surgery

1. Keep your bandages clean and dry. Before you go to bed, check the dressing around the surgery site to make sure everything is copacetic.
2. Sleep on your back with the leg slightly elevated.
3. Roll over to the “good leg” side.
4. Try breathing exercises to help relax.

What can you not do after PCL surgery?

Bathing – Tub bathing, swimming, and soaking of the knee should be avoided until allowed by your doctor – Usually 4-6 weeks after your surgery. Keep the dressing on, clean and dry for the first 3 days after surgery.

When is PCL surgery necessary?

Patients with grade 2 PCL tears should consider reconstruction if they have trouble decelerating, going down inclines, going down hills, or if they start to develop pain in their kneecap joint or along the inside (medial joint line) of their knee.

Is PCL worse than ACL?

Although it is larger and stronger than the ACL, the PCL can be torn. PCL tears make up less than 20% of injuries to knee ligaments. Injuries that tear the PCL often damage some of the other ligaments or cartilage in the knee, as well.

Can a completely torn PCL heal on its own?

PCL injuries are usually partial ligament tears, and typically heal on their own, without causing stability issues, so long as the knee is protected during healing, and there are no other knee joint injuries.

Can you walk with a torn PCL?

You may have trouble walking. If you only have mild damage to the PCL and no other parts of your knee, you may not notice pain, swelling, or other problems at first.

When can I bend my knee after PCL surgery?

DO NOT take your brace off unless you are with your physiotherapist. The brace is there to ensure the new PCL graft has time to heal, as it is very fragile for the first 6 weeks. Any attempt to bend the knee without the aid of the physiotherapist could rupture the graft and set back your recovery.

Do you have to have surgery with a torn PCL?

If you have a severe injury, such as a knee dislocation when more than one ligament is torn, you will need knee surgery to repair the joint. For milder injuries, you may not need surgery. A lot of people can live and function normally with only a torn PCL.