Arthroscopic Meniscus Repair

Phase I (Weeks 0-6)

1. Weightbearing:  As tolerated with crutches
2. Hinged Knee Brace:  worn for 4 weeks post-opLocked in full extension for ambulation and sleeping – remove for hygiene and PT (Weeks 0-2)Unlocked for ambulation and removed while sleeping, for hygiene and PT (Weeks 2-4)
3. Locked in full extension for ambulation and sleeping – remove for hygiene and PT (Weeks 0-2)
4. Unlocked for ambulation and removed while sleeping, for hygiene and PT (Weeks 2-4)
5. Range of Motion – AAROM -> AROM as toleratedWeeks 0–4:  Full ROM – No weightbearing at flexion angles greater than 90°Weeks 4–6:  Full ROM as tolerated – progress to flexion angles greater than 90°
6. Weeks 0–4:  Full ROM – No weightbearing at flexion angles greater than 90°
7. Weeks 4–6:  Full ROM as tolerated – progress to flexion angles greater than 90°
8. Therapeutic ExercisesQuad/Hamstring sets, heel slides, straight leg raises, co-contractionsIsometric abduction and adduction exercisesPatellar MobilizationsAt 4 Weeks: can begin partial wall-sits – keep knee flexion angle less than 90°
9. Quad/Hamstring sets, heel slides, straight leg raises, co-contractions
10. Isometric abduction and adduction exercises
11. Patellar Mobilizations
12. At 4 Weeks: can begin partial wall-sits – keep knee flexion angle less than 90°

Phase II (Weeks 6-12)

1. Weightbearing:  As tolerated — discontinue crutch use at 6 weeks
2. Hinged Knee Brace:  Discontinue brace use when patient has achieved full extension with no evidence of extension lag
3. Range of Motion –  Full active ROM
4. Therapeutic ExercisesClosed chain extension exercises, Hamstring strengtheningLunges – 0-90°, Leg press – 0-90°Proprioception exercisesBegin use of the stationary bicycle
5. Closed chain extension exercises, Hamstring strengthening
6. Lunges – 0-90°, Leg press – 0-90°
7. Proprioception exercises
8. Begin use of the stationary bicycle

Phase III (Weeks 12-16)

1. Weightbearing:  Full weightbearing with normal gait pattern
2. Range of Motion – Full/Painless ROM
3. Therapeutic ExercisesContinue with quad and hamstring strengtheningFocus on single-leg strengthBegin jogging/runningPlyometrics and sport-specific drills
4. Continue with quad and hamstring strengthening
5. Focus on single-leg strength
6. Begin jogging/running
7. Plyometrics and sport-specific drills

Phase IV (Months 4-6)

1. Gradual return to athletic activity as tolerated
2. Maintenance program for strength and endurance

Comments:   Patients should avoid tibial rotation for 4-6 weeks post-op