Meniscus Repair Protocol

Keys to a Successful Outcome

Brace should be locked in full extension for the first post-op week.
Ice should be used liberally for the first two weeks
Only toe-touch weight-bearing is allowed for the first 4 weeks.

Phase	Brace	ROM	WB	Exercises
Week 1	Locked in full extension*	PROM**	Toe-Touch WB***	Straight-leg raise ex, quads/add/gluteal sets, ankle pumps. Well-leg stationary cycling, Upper body ergometer ; Upper body and core.
Weeks 2-4	Unlocked 0-90°	PROM; 0-90°	Toe-Touch WB***	Continue manual resisted ex of the foot, ankle, hip; Trunk stabilization program; Single-leg balance and proprioceptive ex; Aerobic ex w/out operated leg.
Weeks 4-6	Unlocked 0-90°; may discontinue at 6 weeks	PROM; 0-120°	Wean off brace and crutches	Incorporate functional exercises; Stationary bike low cadence; Slow walking on treadmill for gait training (low-impact treadmill preferred).
Weeks 6-8	None	PROM; 0-135°	WBAT with no limp as a goal	Increase the intensity of functional exercises; DO NOT overload exercises; Tolerate 90/90 Squat
Weeks 8-12	None	FPROM	WBAT	Add lateral training exercises; introduce more progressive closed chain and agility leg exercises. Begin sport-specific training.
Weeks 12-16	None	FPROM	WBAT	Low-impact activities until week 16; Initiate return to running program; increase intensity of exercises.

*Off for exercises and hygiene

**Twice-a-day, without brace, perform an "edge of bed dangle" and allow gravity only to bend the knee back as tolerated, but no more than 90 degrees. Keep bent for 1-5 minutes for a good stretch. Straighten the knee on your own once time is up, relax for a bit then bend again if desired.

***Toe-touch WB with brace locked in extension. Crutches used for gait.

Meniscus Repair Protocol

Keys to a Successful Outcome

Clinic Information

Hours