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Knee

Posteromedial Corner (PMC) Tear Treatment Options

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:

  1. Severe Injury: The knee gaps open when fully extended.
  2. 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.

If you’re reviewing treatment options for a PMC tear, schedule a consultation with the board-certified knee surgeons at MM Orthopaedics. From bracing to surgical reconstruction, MM Orthopaedics provides patient-centered care at their Santa Monica office for patients from Los Angeles and Manhattan Beach.

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