Meniscus Repair Surgery Recovery Guide
Rehabilitation After Meniscus Repair
Approximately 80% of meniscus tears are not repairable. In these cases, the torn meniscus is removed to eliminate pain and improve function. patients are allowed to recover at their own pace without restrictions.
Meniscus repair surgery recovery, however, consists of distinct phases. It is possible to overlap phases depending on the individual progress of the patient. It is also possible to move backward if a patient struggles with a particular phase of the protocol. We have provided approximate time markers for phases, but actual meniscus tear recovery time varies among individuals. My protocol below will be implemented by a physical therapist that we recommend.
Meniscus Repair Surgery Recovery Phase I:
Control Pain and Swelling
1 to 14 Days After Surgery
- Full passive knee extension and 90 degrees of flexion
- Independent straight leg raise - electrical stimulation at 60 degrees knee flexion
- Non-weight bearing for 2 weeks
- Reduce swelling- cryotherapy and e-stim
Meniscus Repair Surgery Recovery Phase II:
Early Mobilization
Approximately Weeks 2-6 After Meniscus Surgery
- Maintain full extension with heel props and prone hangs
- Flexion to 90 degrees
- Strengthen core
Meniscus Repair Surgery Recovery Phase III:
Static Conditioning
Start at 6-8 Weeks Post Meniscus Surgery
Meniscus Repair Surgery Recovery Phase IV:
Restoration of 80% Strength
Progress if no regression, swelling, giving-way, increased pain or stiffness (soreness is normal)
- Quadriceps tone continues to improve with noticeable quadriceps definition returning
- Return to full daily activities and achieve at least 80% strength
Meniscus Repair Surgery Recovery Phase IV:
Dynamic Phase
3-6 Months After Meniscus Surgery Progress if no regression, swelling, giving-way, increased pain, or stiffness (soreness is normal)
- Proprioceptive/agility specific program
- Complete a sport specific functional progression
Meniscus Repair Surgery Recovery Phase V: Ballistic
4-6 Months into Meniscus Surgery Recovery
- More advanced sports-specific drill at competitive speeds
- Controlled participation in practices