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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.
Meniscal
Repair
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.
 
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