Meniscectomy — Knee Meniscectomy

Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists (OSMS)

Weight-Bearing

Consider crutches first 24-48 hrs only

Key Restrictions

Leave post-surgical dressing on for 5 days; general expectation 95-99% return to activities, though soreness/ache may persist up to 8 wks post-op

Timeline & Phases

Phase I (surgery-2 wks): rapid recovery focus, leave post-surgical dressing 5 days, consider crutches first 24-48 hrs, quadriceps sets, SLRs, calf pumps, heel slides, cardiovascular exercise as tolerated, progress to Phase II after 2 wks if safe gait and no effusion; Phase II (2-6 wks): good quadriceps control, full ROM, improve hip/core strength/balance/proprioception, progressive squat program, leg press, lunges, single leg standing control, functional single-plane closed chain movements, agility exercises (sport cord), balance/proprioceptive exercise, single leg balance board, cardiovascular exercise as tolerable

Notes

OSMS Rehabilitation Guidelines; one of the most common orthopedic surgeries with generally rapid recovery; recovery may vary for patients over age 35