Final answer:
After PCL reconstruction, the focus in the first week of physical therapy should be on hamstring strengthening to support the healing ligament, unlike quadriceps strengthening which may overload the reconstructed ligament during this sensitive phase of healing.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient recovering from Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) reconstruction requires a carefully structured rehabilitation program. After an initial assessment of the patient's knee functionality post-surgery, a physical therapist will tailor a treatment plan that helps restore strength and mobility while preventing further injury. The primary focus in the early stages of PCL rehabilitation is to preserve the integrity of the surgical repair and ensure proper healing.
Considering the dynamics of PCL rehabilitation, hamstring strengthening exercises are a primary focus. The hamstrings play a critical role in stabilizing the knee and supporting the healing ligament. Hamstring strengthening can help reduce stress on the PCL and support its recovery. Therefore, the correct exercise focus for a patient in their upcoming session a week following PCL reconstruction would be (C) Hamstring strengthening.
Exercises such as prone hamstring curls or seated leg curls may be initiated to start strengthening the hamstrings without placing excessive strain on the PCL. The primary concern is to avoid overloading the reconstructed ligament while it is still healing, which could be exacerbated by intense exercises such as deep squats or leg presses that fall under quadriceps strengthening in a closed kinematic chain.
While hamstring stretching and quadriceps stretching may be integral at different points in the rehabilitation process to maintain flexibility and range of motion, they would not be the primary focus during this acute phase post-surgery. These activities could potentially stress the healing ligament too much if performed improperly or too early. Proper sequencing and progression of exercises are vital in the rehabilitation protocol to ensure safe and effective recovery.