Arthroscopic Meniscal Repair Rehab Program

Phase 1: 0-4 Weeks

  • WBAT with crutches
  • Brace: locked in extension until 1st post-op visit (7-10 days post-op), including at night. Then unlocked. May remove brace for exercises/PT and hygiene.
  • ROM: full ROM w/no weight bearing at flexion angles > 90°
    • Goal: Full extension by 2 weeks post-op
  • Strengthening: quad sets, heel slides, SLR, etc.
  • Daily Patellar Mobilization
  • Avoid tibial rotation

Phase 2: 4-8 Weeks

  • WBAT (wean from crutches)
  • Wean brace
  • ROM: progress to full ROM w/PROM as tolerated at flexion angles > 90°
  • Strengthening: partial wall sits, no greater than 90°

Phase 3: 8-12 Weeks

  • FWB w/o crutches
  • ROM: full active ROM
  • Strengthening: progress closed-chain exercises, lunges 0-90°, hamstring work, leg press 0-90°, begin stationary bike

Phase 4: 12+ Weeks

  • FWB w/ normal gait pattern
  • ROM: full
  • Strengthening: running, jogging, plyometrics, sport specific drills