No improvement in pain seven weeks after fall. Does it indicate it is not healing?

Question

Hello doctor,

I fell over seven weeks ago at a running competition (at the end of a race), and had subsequent knee pain, swelling and difficulty walking. I then proceeded to have an X-ray which ruled out any fractures and then an MRI which showed a partial PCL tear. I have been having physiotherapy on it since including leg strengthening exercises. However, severe pain still persists, no improvement from the pain felt two weeks post-injury. Does this indicate it is not healing?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The pain indicates that you might give some more time for it to heal properly. Do not be in a hurry to start up your exercises. Partial PCL (posterior cruciate ligament) tear recovers well with exercises. So, you do not worry.

Keep working towards pain reduction first before starting off any exercise routine. Work for range of movement in your knee. Once you attain pain-free movement with complete or at least considerable pain-free range, you can start off next level of rehabilitation.

Till then, work on the recruitment of muscles and maintain whatever you have. Hope this is helpful for you.

For more information consult a physiotherapist online.