Post-Operative Rehabilitation: Meniscal Repair (Moderate Grade)
| Time Period | Weight Bearing | Walking Aides | Brace | WB ROM | NWB ROM | Avoid | Exercises Permitted |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0–6 weeks | Partial weight bearing (<50%) when walking with brace on | Crutches always | At all times | 0–90° (when partial WB) | Full |
No bending beyond 90°. No deep weighted squats. No running. |
Isometric quadriceps/hamstring – 3×/day (10–20 min). Straight leg raises – 300/day. Supine range of motion as pain allows. Patella mobilisations. Cryotherapy – 3×/day. Must get the knee out straight ASAP. |
| 7–12 weeks | Full weight bearing | Nil | Nil | Full | N/A | No deep weighted squats. No running. |
Walk; Exercise bike; Closed-chain & double-leg exercises (squat, deadlift, leg press); Open-chain exercises (build up slowly). |
| 13–21 weeks | Full weight bearing | Nil | Nil | Full | N/A | No running before 16 weeks; Avoid twisting sports/movement. |
Single-leg & open-chain exercises; Light jog and build up to run at 16 weeks; Swimming. |
| >21 weeks | Full weight bearing | Nil | Nil | Full | N/A | No restrictions. | Can return to sport when cleared by physiotherapist and Mr Aujla. |
Common Issues
- Leg gives way in phase one: Common due to poor quadriceps activation, not mechanical instability.
- Numb skin: Caused by tiny skin nerve irritation near incisions; not a significant nerve injury.
- Muscle “wasting”: Quadriceps and hamstrings may look smaller early due to poor activation; regain strength through rehab.
- Activity-related pain/swelling: Common for up to 12 months; rest, ice, elevate, and use anti-inflammatories if needed.
- Good days and bad days: Fluctuations in comfort are normal during recovery.