Meniscus Repair Rehabilitation: Protecting Healing Tissue
Meniscus repair aims to preserve joint health and reduce the long-term risk of arthritis, but it requires a more cautious rehabilitation approach than meniscus removal. Healing timelines depend on the type and location of the repair, and early decisions can influence long-term success.
Early rehabilitation balances movement with protection. Range of motion and weight-bearing are often progressed gradually to avoid excessive shear forces through the healing meniscus. While this can feel restrictive, it is essential for allowing biological healing to occur.
Strength training remains a priority throughout rehabilitation. Even when knee bending or loading is limited, targeted exercises can maintain quadriceps strength, hip control and overall conditioning. This reduces deconditioning and supports a smoother transition into later stages of rehab.
Patients often feel capable early, which can be misleading. Pain and swelling may settle quickly despite incomplete healing. Education around timelines and restrictions is vital to prevent premature return to high-load activities.
As rehabilitation progresses, functional strengthening, balance work and controlled impact activities are introduced. Return to sport or physically demanding work is guided by strength, movement quality and symptom response rather than time alone.
When well managed, meniscus repair rehabilitation leads to excellent outcomes and long-term joint protection.