When can walking without support begin after PCL surgery?

Question

Hi doctor,

Five weeks before my PCL surgery was done using a screw which fixed my left knee PCL with the leg down bone patella. After four weeks, my doctor had recommended me to start walking with a well-weight and try to bend my leg to remove the freeze. After five weeks, my doctor has suggested me to try to walk without knee braceses and allow for my sitting work but I need to use braces while walking. This time I am walking with the help of a walker. But after two days, I have to go to the office. So, please let me know should I use a cane or crutches for walking and when I can walk without any support?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

You had a PCL (posterior cruciate ligament) injury five weeks back which was managed by a screw fixation. I have seen both your pre-operative MRI scan and a post-operative X-ray (attachment removed to protect patient identity). In my opinion, you can continue with the use of knee ROM brace with intermittent knee movements, crutch aided PWB movement for one more week and then crutch aided full weight bearing ambulation. Repeat X-ray after four weeks, and maybe 6 to 8 weeks post-surgery, the patient can be made to ambulate without any support depending upon initial reduction and subsequent healing. So, as of now, you can go to your office with the help of crutches and partial weight bearing on the operated leg.