Posterolateral Corner (PLC) Tear Surgery
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Mild Injuries: Most MCL tears heal on their own because the MCL has a good blood supply and is outside the joint capsule.
- Rest and Activity Modification: Avoid movements that cause pain or instability.
- Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Hinged Knee Brace: Provides support. Often seen on many linemen in the NFL.
- Physical Therapy: Helps improve strength and flexibility.
Note: Surgery may be needed if:
- Severe Injury: The knee gaps open when fully extended.
- Meniscotibial MCL Tear: The MCL tears and pulls away from the tibia, making it hard to heal.
- Timing: Surgery is best within two weeks of the injury, after the knee has regained some range of motion.
- Techniques:
- Augmentation: Repairing the MCL and using a graft or suture to support the damaged tissue.
- Full Reconstruction: Rebuilding the MCL and POL using grafts.
Recent techniques have improved recovery and allowed many people to return to high-level activities.
- Duration: Recovery usually takes 6 to 12 months.
- Physical Therapy: Starts 1 or 2 days after surgery to work on range of motion.
- Weight Bearing: Avoid bearing weight for the first six weeks.
- Driving: Generally allowed about 7 to 8 weeks after surgery.
- Rehabilitation:
- Endurance and Strengthening: Begins after the initial recovery phase once regaining full range of motion.
- Agility Exercises: Start around 4-6 months.
- Return to Sport: Typically, possible at 9 months post-surgery.
At a Glance
Meet Our Team
- Nationally Renowned Orthopedic Surgeons
- Double Board-Certified, Fellowship-Trained
- Previous Medical Staff for the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, PGA and Olympics
Meet Dr. Nima Mehran
Meet Dr. Matt Muffly
