Rehabilitation guidelines following Knee Arthroscopy
Timelines mentioned are approximate and progression depends on individual recovery.
Knee arthroscopy for isolated meniscal tears or loose bodies does not need intensive physiotherapy post-operatively. Please follow Dr Reddy’s advice regarding exercises.
Dr Reddy will refer you to a therapist if knee stiffness or quadriceps weakness is an issue or if concomitant conditions of the knee may benefit from physiotherapy.
For the first 2 weeks – Apply icepacks 3-5 times daily for 10 minutes each time.
First 2 weeks
Static quadriceps exercises, straight leg raise, calf presses, hip abduction exercise.
Core strengthening exercises.
Range of movement of knee exercise sitting in a chair.
Upper body conditioning.
Progress with gait training to decrease dependence on assistive devices, if being used.
2-6 weeks
Progress with strengthening exercises as tolerated – including squats, hamstring curl, leg press.
Progress with resistance exercises, core strengthening and start aerobic exercises.
Emphasise single leg strength, stance and proprioception.