Post-Op Knee Rehabilitation

Knee surgery rehabilitation is one of our most common post-surgical programs. Whether you have had an ACL reconstruction, meniscus repair or removal, total knee replacement, or other knee procedure, the quality of your rehabilitation directly determines your functional outcome.

Each procedure has specific considerations. ACL reconstruction requires rebuilding neuromuscular control and sport-specific function. Total knee replacement focuses on restoring full range of motion and strength for comfortable daily function. Meniscus procedures vary widely in their precautions depending on whether the tissue was repaired or trimmed.

• Early range of motion — Restoring full knee extension and progressive flexion is the top priority in the early weeks
• Quadriceps activation — Overcoming the inhibition that naturally occurs after knee surgery
• Swelling management — Techniques to control post-surgical inflammation that limits motion and muscle function
• Progressive strengthening — Building quadriceps, hamstring, and hip strength through a carefully progressed exercise program
• Gait normalization — Restoring a normal walking pattern as early as possible
• Balance and proprioception — Rebuilding the neuromuscular control that protects the knee during dynamic activities
• Return-to-sport testing — For athletes, objective functional testing to confirm readiness for competition

Rehabilitation timelines vary by procedure. Meniscus trimming may recover in six to eight weeks. Total knee replacement typically takes three to four months of active rehabilitation. ACL reconstruction requires six to nine months with formal return-to-sport testing before clearance.

Physical therapy typically begins within the first week after surgery. Early treatment frequency is usually two to three times per week, tapering as you progress.

Your therapist will use objective measures — range of motion, strength testing, functional scores — to track your progress and guide advancement through protocol phases.