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Proprioception

Proprioception is the ability to sense the position and movement of a joint in space and it is a key component of balance and knee joint stability.

Following injury or surgery to the knee proprioception is often impaired and needs to be ‘retrained’.

Generally, proprioceptive exercises tend to be introduced through balance training and are progressed in the following ways:

• Two legged to one-legged stance
• Eyes open to shut
• Slow to fast movements
• Introduction of unstable base (see photo)
• Introduction of resistance
• Introduction of distractions e.g. throwing, catching, reaching, turning
• Introduction of sport/occupation specific drills

It is essential that more functional, dynamic balance tests are incorporated into the rehabilitation program. This involves working on muscular control in activities such as stair descending, walking, rising from a chair, and, in the later stages of rehabilitation, running, hopping and jumping.