MPFL Reconstruction — Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) Reconstruction

Lahey Hospital & Medical Center · M. Lemos, MD; L. Scola, PT, DPT, OCS, OMT

Weight-Bearing

WBAT with brace locked → FWB

Key Restrictions

Brace locked in extension for gait/ADLs 0-4-6 wks; ROM limited to 0-90 deg Phase I; no active extension Phase I; no closed chain exercises past 90 deg knee flexion through Phase III; no driving Phase I; discontinue brace when good single leg stand and quad control achieved

Timeline & Phases

Phase I 1-2 wks (protective/brace/quad control); Phase II 2-6 wks (intermediate/closed chain/pool); Phase III 6-12 wks (progressive closed chain/balance/hip and core); Phase IV 12+ wks (impact control/multi-plane/return to sport per MD)

Notes

MPFL is a continuation of VMO fibers; prevents lateral patellar displacement 0-20-30 deg flexion; early pain control critical to prevent post-op stiffness; pool walking initiated at 4 wks; return to sport requires dynamic neuromuscular control with multi-plane activities without pain or instability

Surgeon / Author

M. Lemos, MD; L. Scola, PT, DPT, OCS, OMT

Published

2014-10