Rehabilitation protocol after posterolateral corner surgery - Phase 1. Weeks 1-2 (Visits: 2-4)

Click through for detailed protocols for each phase:

 

Dr frank noyes

 

 

Part 7 of a course by Dr Frank Noyes on Posterolateral corner injuries of the knee

Phase 1 of rehabilitation focuses on maintaining reasonable range of motion in spite of the surgical inflammatory response.

Below I have given you an overview of our own rehabilitation protocol for this phase, and on the right you will be able to click through to the detailed protocols for each phase.

 

Phase 1. Weeks 1-2 (Visits: 2-4)

 

General observation Non-weight bearing, maximum protection  
  Bivalved cylinder cast  
  Must avoid hyperextension, varus loads, lateral joint opening  
Evaluation   Goals
  Pain Controlled
  Hemarthrosis Mild
  Patellar mobility Good
  ROM minimum 0-90 degrees
  Quadriceps contraction & patella migration Good
  Soft tissue contracture None
Frequency   Duration
  Range of motion  
3-4x/day, 10 mins ROM (passive, 0°-90°)  
  Patella mobilization  
  Ankle pumps (plantar flexion with resistance band)  
  Hamstring, gastroc-soleus stretches 5 reps x 30 secs
  Strengthening  
3x/day, 15 mins Straight leg raises (flexion) 3 sets x 10 reps
  Active quadriceps isometrics 1 set x 10 reps
  Knee extension (active-assisted, 90°-30°, per quad control) 3 sets x 10 reps
  Modalities  
As required electrical muscle stimulation 20 minutes
  cryotherapy 20 minutes
Goals ROM 0°-90°  
  Adequate quadriceps contraction  
  Control inflammation, effusion