Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries Treatment in India

Olivia Saxena, a 28-year-old high school...

Olivia Saxena, a 28-year-old high school biology teacher and weekend soccer player, was injured during a friendly match when an opponent slid into her planted leg. She felt a 'pop' and immediate pain in the back of her knee. Over the next few weeks, the severe swelling subsided, but she was left with a persistent, deep ache, a feeling of instability when walking downstairs, and an inability to return to her beloved sport. Her orthopedic surgeon, after a physical exam and MRI, diagnosed a complete, isolated tear of her Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL). Given her young age, active lifestyle, and desire to return to pivoting sports, the doctor recommended surgical reconstruction using a hamstring tendon graft. Olivia was terrified of surgery and the long recovery, fearing she'd lose her identity as an athlete. The arthroscopic procedure went smoothly, but the initial recovery was challenging, requiring a knee brace and strict non-weight-bearing for weeks. Through dedicated physical therapy, she gradually regained strength and range of motion. Nine months post-op, after immense emotional and physical effort, she was cleared for light jogging. While she may not return to competitive soccer, she has regained full stability for daily life and hiking. The journey transformed her from a patient defined by her injury to a resilient person who learned profound patience, shifting her focus from competition to long-term joint health and wellness.