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Meniscus Repair Protocol
Keys to a Successful Outcome
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Brace should be locked in full extension for the first post-op week.
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Ice should be used liberally for the first two weeks
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Only toe-touch weight-bearing is allowed for the first 4 weeks.
Phase | Brace | ROM | WB | Exercises |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Week 1 | Locked in full extension* | PROM** | Toe-Touch WB*** | Straight-leg raise ex, quads/add/gluteal sets, ankle pumps. Well-leg stationary cycling, Upper body ergometer ; Upper body and core. |
Weeks 2-4 | Unlocked 0-90° | PROM; 0-90° | Toe-Touch WB*** | Continue manual resisted ex of the foot, ankle, hip; Trunk stabilization program; Single-leg balance and proprioceptive ex; Aerobic ex w/out operated leg. |
Weeks 4-6 | Unlocked 0-90°; may discontinue at 6 weeks | PROM; 0-120° | Wean off brace and crutches | Incorporate functional exercises; Stationary bike low cadence; Slow walking on treadmill for gait training (low-impact treadmill preferred). |
Weeks 6-8 | None | PROM; 0-135° | WBAT with no limp as a goal | Increase the intensity of functional exercises; DO NOT overload exercises; Tolerate 90/90 Squat |
Weeks 8-12 | None | FPROM | WBAT | Add lateral training exercises; introduce more progressive closed chain and agility leg exercises. Begin sport-specific training. |
Weeks 12-16 | None | FPROM | WBAT | Low-impact activities until week 16; Initiate return to running program; increase intensity of exercises. |
*Off for exercises and hygiene
**Twice-a-day, without brace, perform an "edge of bed dangle" and allow gravity only to bend the knee back as tolerated, but no more than 90 degrees. Keep bent for 1-5 minutes for a good stretch. Straighten the knee on your own once time is up, relax for a bit then bend again if desired.
***Toe-touch WB with brace locked in extension. Crutches used for gait.