Meniscal Repair Rehabilitation Protocol

PHASE I
0-2 weeks

Full in Brace locked in extension***

Locked in full extension for sleeping and all activity*

0-90° when non- weight bearing

Heel slides, quad sets, patellar mobs, SLR, SAQ**
No weight bearing with flexion >90°

Off for exercises and hygiene

PHASE II
2-6 weeks

2-4 weeks: Full in Brace unlocked 0-90°
4-6 weeks: Full w/o brace

2-6 weeks:
Unlocked
0-90°
Off at night
Discontinue brace at 6 weeks

As tolerated

Addition of heel raises, total gym (closed chain),terminal knee extensions**
Activities w/ brace until 6 weeks; then w/o brace as tolerated

No weight bearing with flexion >90°

PHASE III
6-12 weeks

Full

None

Full

Progress closed chain activities

Begin hamstring work, lunges/leg press 0-90°, proprioception exercises, balance/core/hip/glutes

Begin stationary bike when able

PHASE IV
12-20 weeks

Full

None

Full

Progress Phase III exercises and functional activities: single leg balance, core, glutes, eccentric hamstrings, elliptical, and bike
Swimming okay at 12 wks
Advance to sport-specific drills and running/jumping after 16 wks once cleared by MD