Recovering from Posterolateral Corner (PLC) Surgery

Depending on the severity of the PLC injury and the associated ligaments injured, recovery following PLC surgery can take between 9 and 12 months. Physical therapy starts on postoperative day 1 or 2 to work on range of motion. Patients should not bear weight on the operative side for the first six weeks after surgery. Driving on the operative knee is usually allowed at about seven to eight weeks postoperatively. Endurance and strengthening can be started in the second phase of the rehabilitation. Agility exercises start at 4 months post-op, along with the running progression if previous stages have been successfully achieved. Return to sport following an LCL surgery is typically at 9 months post-op.

Rehabilitation after PLC surgery is a gradual process that involves structured physical therapy to restore knee strength and function. Patients typically begin with protected weight-bearing before progressing to more advanced strengthening exercises. Dr. Jorge Chahla offers expert post-surgical care to ensure optimal recovery. If you are recovering from PLC surgery, contact Dr. Chahla’s office in Chicago, Naperville, or Oak Brook for a personalized rehabilitation plan.