MPFL Reconstruction — with Proximal Realignment

University of Delaware Physical Therapy · UDPT Clinical Team

Weight-Bearing

WBAT in immobilizer locked at full extension for 4 weeks; progress to functional brace

Key Restrictions

No NMES over VMO; no MVIC until 12 weeks; no Burst test until 16 weeks; hop testing at 20 weeks; running when QI ≥ 80% and ≥ 16 weeks post-op; return to sport after 9 months with QI > 90%, KOS > 90%, hop tests > 90%

Timeline & Phases

Weeks 1-2 (Early Post-op), Weeks 3-4 (Initial Rehab), Weeks 5-6 (Intermediate Strengthening), Weeks 7-8 (Progressive Stability), Weeks 9-12 (Functional Progression), Weeks 13-16 (Return to Activity); 24-36 visits expected

Notes

University of Delaware PT Clinic; semitendinosus autograft + VMO advancement + limited lateral release; secondary: distal realignment, patellar/trochlear chondroplasty; protected NMES at 30° with patella taped medially; MVIC at 60° at 12 weeks; KOS > 80% by week 12; KOS/GRS > 90%, QI > 90%, hop tests > 90% required for return to sport after 9 months

Surgeon / Author

UDPT Clinical Team