Patellar Realignment — Proximal Realignment

University of Delaware Physical Therapy · UDPT Clinical Team

Weight-Bearing

WBAT in immobilizer first 4 weeks; ambulate without immobilizer by week 6

Key Restrictions

No NMES over VMO; no Burst testing or hop testing until 16 weeks; running when QI ≥ 80%, full ROM, and ≥ 12 weeks; full ADL return in 3-4 months; return to sport in 4-6 months

Timeline & Phases

Week 1 (Early Post-op), Weeks 2-6 (Intermediate Post-op), Weeks 7-16 (Late Post-op); 20-36 visits expected

Notes

University of Delaware PT Clinic; primary: medial VMO realignment (soft tissue only); secondary: limited lateral release; soft tissue healing 4-6 weeks; shorter recovery than proximal-distal; protected NMES at 30° with patella taped; SLR without quad lag by week 6; if ROM concern can use hinged brace locked during ambulation

Surgeon / Author

UDPT Clinical Team