Non-operative Treatment
The rehabilitation program for non-operative treatment of a meniscus injury
may include:
using crutches for protective weight bearing
while walking. Crutch use is usually recommended for the first 2 - 3
days after injury, or until pain and swelling have subsided.
flexion - extension exercises
for motion and strength. An exercise program begins about 2 - 4 weeks
after injury. No rotational exercises are permitted until the knee is
symptom-free.
return to activities at about 4 - 6
weeks after injury. If the knee is still symptomatic after 2 - 3
months, further medical evaluation and surgery may be necessary.
Partial
Resection
The rehabilitation program for a partial resection of the meniscus may
include:
crutch use for the first 2 - 3 days
following surgery due to post-operative pain and swelling. After this,
the patient may be weight-bearing as tolerated.
range of motion exercises are
emphasized at first.
strength exercises begin once
swelling has subsided.
return to activities can start at
about 4 - 6 weeks following surgery.
MeniscalRepair
Rehabilitation after meniscal repair depends on the size of the tear,
stability of the repair, and other injuries. In general, for an isolated
meniscal repair:
Full weight bearing is not permitted
for 1 - 6 weeks after surgery, depending on the type of injury
and repair. Crutches will be used initially following surgery.
Many surgeons brace the knee
and restrict motion for 6 weeks, to prevent excessive flexion
and extension.
Range of motion exercises
begin anywhere from 0 - 6 weeks after surgery, depending on the
type of repair.
Strengthening exercises begin
once full range of motion has returned.
Return to vigorous activities,
such as sports, may begin 3 - 4 months after repair.
Persistent
pain, mechanical symptoms, or stiffness after meniscal repair may indicate
the need for further treatment. If the meniscus does not heal, its revision
or removal may be necessary.
