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

The clinical team will be keeping an eye out for complications during this early phase of rehab after posterolateral corner surgery.

First published 2009 by Dr Frank R Noyes, and reviewed August 2023 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)

 

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

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

 

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  

 

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Author

Dr Frank R Noyes

Retired knee surgeon

DR NOYES HAS RETIRED.


Based at the Cincinnati Sportsmedicine and Orthopaedic Center in the USA, Dr Frank Noyes is one of the world's most prominent figures when it comes to knee surgery. A prolific researcher and writer, he has published over 200 studies and articles in the world's top...read more

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