How to Exercise with Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injury of the Knee?
Rehabilitation exercise for posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury requires different exercises according to various stages. Initially, appropriate rest is necessary to prevent secondary damage to the knee. Subsequently, exercise intensity should be increased based on the recovery stage.
1. Weeks 0-2 Post-surgery
If surgical treatment is performed, static exercises should be maintained within the first 0-2 weeks post-surgery. This mainly involves keeping the joint immobile and maintaining a position until muscle fatigue to gradually increase tolerance. Depending on the knee joint involved (i.e., the surgical site), perform leg lifting exercises 30 times per set, with a total of 3 sets, and rest for 30 seconds between each set until fatigue is reached. Increase intensity based on the post-operative timeline; for example, perform two sets of exercises daily one week post-surgery. In the second week post-surgery, add hip adduction exercises and passive knee joint activities, such as passive knee exercises from extension to 90-degree flexion, with two sets of 30 minutes each day. During exercise, maintain slow movements, avoid impatience and excessive speed, and prevent damage to the surgical site.
2. Weeks 3-4 Post-surgery
Between weeks 3-4 post-surgery, joint activities should be intensified to enhance muscle flexibility exercises. For instance, begin practicing standing on one foot and static squats. Around four weeks post-surgery, this period is crucial for restoring knee mobility, and exercises can be intensified using equipment. For example, use braces for passive knee joint activities, increasing the range of motion from 0-90 degrees to 0-120 degrees with outward rotation. Gradually incorporate half-squats, backward walking, and balance training based on individual conditions, with each session lasting 30 minutes and two sessions per day.
3. Weeks 5 to Three Months Post-surgery
During this period, rehabilitation training should be conducted based on recovery progress. If recovery is good, strengthen full-range knee joint exercises, such as moderate-load exercises, while intensifying joint activities and muscle strength training to improve joint stability and restore daily living abilities.
4. Months 4-6 Post-surgery
During this period, exercises can be intensified based on individual conditions, such as rope skipping, swimming, or jogging. However, sudden high-intensity exercises should be avoided. The above is the exercise method for PCL injury rehabilitation. Due to differences in constitution and injury severity, individuals should choose suitable treatment methods and cooperate with rehabilitation training. Rehabilitation training is a long-term and gradual process. Avoid rushing and it is recommended to regularly visit the hospital for follow-ups while adjusting exercise intensity based on individual conditions.
