I tore the posterior cruciate ligament in my knee playing soccer. It was only a minor tear so I decided to rehab it instead of having surgery. I want to get back on the field as soon as possible. When is it safe to go back?

According to several studies patients with PCL injuries treated without surgery go back
to their previous level of sports or activities:

  • as they were able (doctors call this “as tolerated”)
  • after regaining full knee range of motion
  • after getting full strength back

    Your doctor, physical therapist, or athletic trainer can test your muscle strength. Safe
    return to sports activity depends on near normal-to-normal strength.

    Some experts suggest looking at joint laxity before resuming sports activity. However studies also show that joint laxity may not be that important. No matter how little or how much laxity is present, 50 percent of all patients are able to go back to their
    former level of sports participation. Some even get back into sports at a higher level than before the injury!