Diagnosis

Your physician will take your history and perform a physical exam, which will aid in making the proper diagnosis. During the exam your physician may also perform a variety of tests to determine if the knee is unstable.

Your physician may take an X-ray. X-rays do not show ligaments, but they can reveal any associated damage to the bones and cartilage. For example, if the PCL is torn completely from its attachment to the shinbone, it may take a piece of bone as well. This is called an avulsion fracture and can be seen on an X-ray. An MRI, which shows ligaments and other soft tissues in the body, is needed for a more complete diagnosis of your injury.