Meniscus tear: Rehabilitation exercises
Why should I do rehabilitation after a meniscus tear?
The goals of rehabilitation are to restore range of motion, strength, and endurance of your knee. A rehabilitation program usually includes treatment with a physical therapist at a therapy center and home treatment in your home or at a gym or health club. Your physical therapist will design a program that guides you through exercises to reach these goals on a schedule that takes into account your health status, age, and activity expectations. In general, as you see less of your therapist, you do more on your own.
Recovery from a meniscus tear depends on many factors. If the tear is minor and your symptoms go away, your doctor may recommend a set of exercises to increase your flexibility and strength.
If you have surgery to repair your meniscus, your surgeon may recommend that you do not move your knee more than absolutely necessary (immobilization) in the days after surgery. This may be followed by a period of limited motion before you are able to resume daily activities. Some doctors believe that it helps to begin a physical therapy and exercise program soon after surgery, while others believe that heavy stresses, such as running and squats, should be postponed for some months. Physical therapy that is guided by your doctor and designed for your individual needs is a key part of regaining strength and flexibility in your leg, as well as helping prevent future degeneration in the knee joint.
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Your doctor's recommendations will be tailored to the condition of your knee and your individual preferences.
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| Author: | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH | Last Updated: September 22, 2008 |
| Medical Review: |
William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Kenneth J. Koval, MD - Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Trauma |
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