Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat various knee joint problems, such as meniscus tears, ligament damage, or cartilage issues. This technique uses small incisions and an arthroscope, allowing surgeons to work with less tissue trauma than traditional open surgery. A structured exercise plan is fundamental to recovery, restoring knee function and mobility. Recovery timelines vary based on the procedure and individual healing rates, underscoring the importance of personalized guidance from a healthcare professional.
Immediate Post-Surgery Movements
Immediately following knee arthroscopy, within the first week, the focus is on gentle movements to manage pain and swelling and initiate muscle activation. Ankle pumps are a common initial exercise, involving flexing and pointing the toes to promote blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. These movements also help prevent stiffness in the lower leg.
Quadriceps sets, or “quad sets,” are another foundational exercise introduced early in recovery. This exercise tightens thigh muscles with a straight leg, without moving the knee joint. It maintains muscle tone, prevents atrophy, and activates the quadriceps, crucial for knee support. Gentle passive range of motion exercises, such as heel slides (sliding the heel towards the buttocks to bend the knee), are also encouraged to prevent stiffness and gradually improve flexibility.
Progressing Your Rehabilitation Exercises
As recovery advances, from the second week, the exercise regimen progresses to active range of motion and light strengthening activities. Straight leg raises are often introduced at this stage; this involves lying on your back and lifting the straightened leg to strengthen the quadriceps without excessive stress on the knee joint. These exercises build muscle strength and stability around the knee, improving daily activities.
Further progression may include exercises like hamstring curls, either standing or seated, to strengthen the muscles at the back of the thigh for knee stability. Wall slides, where you lean against a wall and slide down into a squat-like position, can also build thigh and hip strength. Low-impact aerobic activities, such such as stationary cycling with no resistance, may be introduced around 4-6 weeks post-surgery to improve range of motion and cardiovascular endurance, once incisions are closed.
Key Considerations for Safe Exercise
Safe and effective rehabilitation after knee arthroscopy relies on a personalized plan developed by a surgeon or physical therapist. Physical therapy appointments are scheduled for several weeks to guide exercise progression and ensure proper technique. It is important to listen to your body and recognize signs of overexertion, such as increased pain, swelling, or warmth around the knee.
Avoiding high-impact activities too soon is important, as the knee needs time to heal and regain strength. Activities like running or jumping are restricted for a longer period, sometimes several months, depending on the extent of the surgery. Returning to sports or strenuous activities is a gradual process and should only occur with the surgeon’s final approval, after achieving full strength and movement without pain or swelling. Consistent engagement in the prescribed home exercise program is also essential for optimal healing outcomes.