Meniscal Repair — Isolated Meniscus Repair

University Orthopedics (Brown University) · University Orthopedics Sports Medicine Division

Weight-Bearing

PWB in brace locked in extension x 6 weeks; WBAT at ~6-9 weeks when gait normalizes

Key Restrictions

Brace locked in extension x 6 weeks; no active hamstring exercises x 6 weeks; no stationary biking x 4 weeks; PROM/AROM 0-90 deg only x 6 weeks; no squatting or leg press >90 deg until 4 months; no hard cutting/pivoting until 4-5 months; no contact sports until 6 months

Timeline & Phases

Phase I (0-2 wks): PWB in brace, quad sets/SLR, heel slides 0-90 deg, patellar mob, calf pumps, e-stim; Phase II (2-4 wks): PROM/AROM 0-90 deg, SLR with ankle weights, core/hip strengthening, stretches; Phase III (4-6 wks): mini squats 0-45 deg, leg press 0-45 deg, stationary bike; Phase IV (6-9 wks): full ROM, WBAT, leg press 0-60 deg, step downs, proprioception, treadmill/elliptical; Phase V (9-12 wks): wall squats/leg press to 90 deg, running prep (2 miles at 15 min/mile); Phase VI (3+ months): running, plyometrics, return to all activities; no contact sports until 6 months

Notes

Isokinetic testing criteria for RTS: quad peak torque deficit <10%, functional hop tests >90%; no cutting/pivoting until 4-5 months; University Orthopedics (Brown University), Providence RI

Surgeon / Author

University Orthopedics Sports Medicine Division