PCL rehabilitation

Phase 1 (0-4 weeks)

• Brace locked in full extension for 2 weeks
• At 2 weeks unlock to 45 degrees
• Non Weight bearing
• Reduce swelling and minimise pain
• Passive range of movements and patella mobilisation
• Quadriceps exercises 90-0 degrees
• No Hamstring curls or heel slides allowed
• Straight leg raise and hip abduction and extension exercises
• Calf and Hamstring stretch
• No driving for 6 weeks

Phase 2 (4-12 weeks)

At 4-6 weeks

At 6-12 weeks

• Start full weight bearing
• Restore gait pattern
• Remove brace at 8 weeks for PCL and 12 weeks for PCL+PLC
• Start mini squats
• Exercise bike without resistance- seat high
• Cross trainer/eliptical
• Proprioceptive exercises- single leg stance and dips
• Pool therapy allowed
• Note: Avoid open chain Hamstring exercises for 4 months

Phase 3 (3 months to 6 months)

• Regain full range of motion
• Continue open chain quadriceps work
• Improve function, strength, power and endurance
• Treadmill and 30 minute power walk
• No running
• Regain atleast 80% quadriceps strength
• Neuromuscular control

Phase 4

• Increase endurance and neuromuscular training
• Start jumps and side stepping
• Sports specific training
• Aim to return to sport between 10-12 months