POST OPERATIVE RECOVERY

Surgeons differ about their specific post operative reconstruction protocols.

Below is a sample version for comparison.

Week 1:

Range of motion brace immediately after surgery.

Weight bearing as tolerated. (May depend on if a meniscal repair took place)

May shower in 7-10 days after suture removal.

Gentle range of motion and isometric strengthening.

Weeks 2-4:

Begin physical therapy.

Emphasis on regaining full extention and eliminating swelling

Quadriceps control and walking status should improve dramatically.

Return to driving after quadriceps control returns.

Weeks 4-8:

Full range of motion should now be present.

Progress physical therapy to more strengthening

Weeks 8-16

Functional rehabilitation begins.

Balance and endurance exercises continue

Sport or work specific exercises are introduced as tolerated.

Weeks 16 and beyond:

Release to sports or work determined by in clinic skill testing