Recovery Guidelines for Knee Arthroscopy with Meniscal Repair

Dr. Fuchs is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon that specializes in diagnosing and surgically treating knee injuries. To aid in recovery, Dr. Fuchs has provided his post-operation guidelines.  If you have further questions regarding recovery guidelines, call (425) 823-4000 to schedule an appointment at our orthopedic clinic in Kirkland, WA today!

0-6 weeks post-op

• Brace 0-90° for 5 weeks post-op
• Toe-touch weight-bearing for 6 weeks post-op
• Use of crutches for 6 weeks post-op

0-2 weeks post-op

• Pain/edema control, patella mobilizations if necessary
• Modalities as needed
• Quad Sets/Hamstring co-contractions 2-3x’s daily
• SLR in brace at 0° until quad can maintain knee locked
• Heel slides in brace
• Obtain full extension if lacking

2 weeks post-op

• Stationary Bike with seat high and lower to normal seat height as tolerated
• Leg extensions with in ROM restrictions, use high volume and light weight
• Leg curls with in ROM restrictions, use high volume and light weight

6 weeks post-op

• Full WB (if OK by MD)
• No pivoting, twisting, hopping, jumping, running
• Encourage full ROM as tolerated
• Normalize gait mechanics
• Progress open/closed chain exercises as tolerated
• Isokinetics exercises
• Treadmill forward and retro walking
• Single leg Stands for proprioception
• Cardiovascular Equipment of choice
• Slide Board – start with short distance and increase as tolerated
• Be aware of PF signs and symptoms and manage accordingly

8 weeks post-op

• Increase progressive resistance exercises for strength, high-intensity low volume; full ROM
• Single leg squats

10 weeks post-op

• Plyometrics – with both feet and move to single leg ASAP
• Assess light jogging on treadmill

12 weeks post-op

• Sport specific drills
• Plyometrics for speed and power
• Clearance from doctor prior to return to sport

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