“DR. TREVOR” STEFANSKI, M.D.
Minimally Invasive Specialist

Proximal Hamstring Repair

Physical Therapy Protocol

Proximal Hamstring Repair Protocol

Proximal Hamstring Repair

Physical Therapy Protocol

Brace Instructions:

  • Brace Settings: Blocked at 30° extension for 6 weeks. OK to unlock to 30-90° while seated.
  • Discontinue Brace: Approximately 6 weeks post-surgery, based on repair strength.

Phase I (Weeks 1–4): Protection & Early Mobility

  • Weight-Bearing:
    • TTWB (~10–14 days).
    • 25% WB at 14 days, increasing by 25% weekly until crutches are discontinued at Week 5.
  • Range of Motion (ROM):
    • PROM as tolerated, starting in Week 2, for hip and knee.
    • Initiate gentle AROM by Week 3 or 4.

Phase II (Weeks 4–8): Controlled Progression

  • Weight-Bearing: FWB if normal gait patterns are demonstrated.
  • Exercises:
    • Aquatic walking and ROM exercises.
    • Closed-chain exercises with limited ROM.
    • Isotonic exercises in limited ROM, avoiding terminal extension.
    • PROM: Knee extension and hip flexion.
    • Core pelvic strength training.

Phase III (Weeks 8–12): Strength & Stability

  • Exercises:
    • Progress isotonic strength training.
    • Advanced dynamic exercises.
    • Core pelvic strength progression.
  • Strength Evaluation: At Week 10, perform isometric testing at 60° knee flexion.

Phase IV (Weeks 10–24): Advanced Training

  • Dry land jogging/running.
  • Functional hip testing.
  • Sport-specific activities and training.

Phase V (Weeks 24+): Strength Testing

  • Full isokinetic evaluation at 60°, 120°, and 180°/second.
  • Bilateral comparison upon physician approval.

Phase VI: Return to Activity

  • Gradual return to full activity per physician and physical therapist guidance.