17/03/2026
🎥 PCL Tear Rehabilitation – Conservative Management
Phase 1 – Protection & Early Strength (0–6 weeks)
The PCL experiences increasing stress as the knee flexes, so early bracing protects the ligament from healing in an overstretched position. The brace is locked in full extension initially, with knee flexion gradually progressed as control and quad strength improve.
Week 0–2: 0° (full extension)
Week 3–4: 0–60°
Week 5–6: 0–90°
During this phase we focus on gait re-education, restoring range of movement, and early quadriceps strength — all performed in the brace while avoiding deep knee flexion.
Phase 2 – Strength & Movement Rebuild
Once out of the brace the focus shifts to rebuilding lower limb strength and movement quality. Heavy strength training is introduced (with the brace still used for heavier lifts and hamstring isolation work), alongside running mechanics drills, single-leg control, and low-level plyometrics. The goal in this phase is restoring strength and preparing the athlete to return to running without pain or instability.
Phase 3 – Return to Running
Before running, the athlete must pass a battery of strength and control tests. From there, a progressive running program begins, gradually building volume and speed. Change of direction drills and deceleration mechanics are introduced to prepare the athlete for the demands of rugby.
Phase 4 – Return to Sport
Once the athlete has successfully completed a return-to-sport testing battery — including strength testing, horizontal and vertical jump and hop assessments — and has progressed through 4 weeks of full team training without pain, instability, or setbacks, they are cleared to return to sport.
📍 Find us at Lift Culture, Port Kennedy
📲 Book online via performancephysio.online
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