Download Meniscal Transplant Rehabilitation Protocol

Meniscal Transplant Protocol

Goals: crutch/brace education, pain and swelling control, range of motion, glute/quad/hamstring activation, progressive ROM > 120 by 6 weeks

CPM Machine

Start 0-30, progress 5 degrees per day as tolerated to 120 (4 hours per day, discontinue at 4 weeks post-op

0-6 Weeks Post Op

  • Brace 0-90° for 4 weeks post op
  • Non weight bearing for 6 weeks post op
  • Limit flexion to 90° until 4 weeks post-op
  • Pain/edema control, patella mobilizations if necessary
  • Quad Sets/Hamstring co-contractions
  • SLR in brace at 0° until quad can maintain knee locked
  • Heel slides in brace
  • Obtain full extension if lacking
  • BFR-Initiate at post op day 14

6 Weeks Post Op

  • Stationary Bike with seat high and lower to normal seat height as tolerated
  • Leg press with 50 % BW MAX!
  • Leg extensions with in ROM restrictions, use high volume and light weight
  • Leg curls with in ROM restrictions, use high volume and light weight
  • Full WB
  • No pivoting, twisting, hopping, jumping, running
  • Encourage full ROM as tolerated
  • Normalize gait mechanics

12 Weeks Post Op

  • Progress open/closed chain resistance exercises as tolerated
  • Isokinetic exercises
  • Treadmill forward and retro walking
  • Single leg stance for proprioception
  • Cardiovascular Equipment of choice
  • Slide Board – start with short distance and increase as tolerated
  • Be aware of patellofemoral signs and symptoms and manage accordingly

16 Weeks Post Op

  • Continue as above
  • Continue and progress flexibility and strengthening program
  • Single leg squats

20 Weeks Post Op

  • Continue as above
  • Plyometrics – with both feet and move to single leg ASAP
  • Assess light jogging on treadmill

24 Weeks Post Op

  • Continue as tolerated
  • Sport specific drills and plyometrics for speed and power