Tear of the anterior or posterior cruciate ligament (ACL/PCL)
The knee is a complex, heavily used joint. It plays an essential role in shock absorption and leg stability. The knee has four main ligaments that are essential to joint stability, including the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), which are more susceptible to tearing, as well as the collateral ligaments.
Tears of these ligaments are common among athletes and can also occur during work that involves lifting heavy loads. They cause pain and knee laxity and may have different causes and symptoms.
At the Laboratoire Orthopédique, we offer adapted treatments to help patients regain mobility.
Symptoms of an ACL or PCL tear
Symptoms vary depending on which ligament is torn.
Anterior cruciate ligament tear
An ACL tear causes knee instability, intense pain, a popping sound at the time of injury, possible displacement sensation and swelling caused by bleeding. The knee becomes loose, making it difficult to use.
Posterior cruciate ligament tear
A PCL tear causes moderate instability and may still allow limited use of the knee. For this reason, it is often diagnosed later than an ACL tear. Pain varies, and swelling may also occur with a popping sensation.
Causes of an ACL or PCL tear
An ACL tear often occurs during sports such as soccer, hockey, dance, running or skiing, particularly when the joint twists while running, jumping or changing direction suddenly.
A PCL tear generally results from a strong impact that drives the knee from front to back, whether during sports, a motor vehicle accident or work.
Are you experiencing pain?
If you have an ACL or PCL tear, book an appointment at the Laboratoire Orthopédique for a high-quality brace adapted to your needs.
Treatment for a cruciate ligament tear
In addition to rest and knee immobilization, treatment depends on which ligament is torn:
Treatment for an ACL tear
Treatment begins by immobilizing the knee with a knee brace. After assessing your needs, our specialists will recommend the model that best suits you. Surgery is not always required and is often reserved for young athletes.
Treatment for a PCL tear
PCL treatment generally includes wearing a brace, rehabilitation and a gradual return to training to strengthen and stabilize the knee. Surgery is considered primarily for young high-performance athletes.
Are you experiencing pain?
If you have an ACL or PCL tear, book an appointment at the Laboratoire Orthopédique for a high-quality brace adapted to your needs.