Ask a PT Response: "The posterior cruciate ligament is the ligament that prevents the tibia (shin bone) from translating too far backwards, while the anterior cruciate ligament is the ligament which keeps the tibia from translating too far forward. The PCL and ACL help provide stability at the knee. Injury to the PCL is more rare compared to the ACL. It is possible to live with a PCL tear and not have it repaired if some higher level activities are modified or avoided. With both an ACL or PCL tear, I would have my patients work on quadricep and hamstring strengthening along with core training. Such exercises could include and are not limited to squats, lunges, single leg exercises, leg machines, etc.. Helping improve the strength of the muscles surrounding the knee and at the core will help allow for some assistance with greater stability at the knee. Perhaps your specialist might be agreeable to at least refer you to physical therapy since he will not approve the surgery. Good luck!"