Meniscus Root Repair

Physical Therapy Protocol

Phase I – Maximum Protection (Weeks 0–6)

Weight Bearing Status:

Non-weight bearing (NWB) x 6 weeks

Brace Setting:

Locked in full extension (0-0°) x 6 weeks

Range of Motion (ROM):

• 0–90° for first 2 weeks
• Progress as tolerated after 2 weeks

Goals:

• Protect repair
• Control pain and inflammation
• Initiate gentle ROM
• Prevent muscle atrophy

Therapeutic Exercises:

• Flexion/Extension – Wall Slides (Weeks 1–10)
• Flexion/Extension – Seated (Weeks 1–12)
• Patella/Tendon Mobilization (Weeks 1–8)
• Quad Series (Weeks 1–8)
• Ankle Pumps (Weeks 1–10)

Crutch Weaning:

Begin around Week 6

Phase II – Intermediate Strengthening (Weeks 6–12)

Goals:

• Begin hamstring activation
• Normalize gait
• Initiate cardiovascular conditioning
• Improve proprioception

Therapeutic Exercises:

• Hamstring Sets (Weeks 6–12)
• Sit and Reach for Hamstrings (Weeks 10–12)
• Balance Series (Weeks 10–24)
• Toe and Heel Raises (Week 10)

Cardio Introduction:

• Bike (no resistance) – Weeks 6–8
• Bike (with resistance) – Weeks 10–24

Phase III – Functional Strength and Balance (Weeks 12–20)

Goals:

• Build muscular strength
• Enhance neuromuscular control
• Expand cardiovascular tolerance

Cardiovascular Training:

• Aquajogging (Weeks 12–20)
• Treadmill walking – 7% incline (Weeks 16–24)
• Swimming with fins – light flutter kick (Weeks 16–24)
• Elliptical Trainer (Weeks 16–24)

Strength & Proprioception:

• Double Knee Bends
• Double Leg Bridges
• Reverse Lunge – Static Holds
• Beginning Cord Exercises
• Balance Squats
• Single Leg Deadlift
• Leg Press (to 70° max flexion)
• All begin between Weeks 12–16 and continue to Week 24

Phase IV – Advanced Agility and High-Level Activity (Weeks 20–30)

Goals:

• Restore athletic function
• Return to high-level activities safely
• Pass functional sports testing

Agility Drills:

• Running Progression (Week 24)
• Initial – Single Plane Agility (Weeks 24–30)
• Advance – Multi-Directional (Week 30)
• Functional Sports Test (Week 30)

High-Level Activities:

• Golf Progression (Week 30)
• Outdoor Biking, Hiking, Snowshoeing (Week 30)
• Return to Sports (Skiing, Basketball, Tennis, Football, Soccer) – After 7–9 months, pending clearance

Timeline Quick View

Week	Key Milestones
0–6	NWB, ROM 0–90°, brace locked
6	Begin crutch weaning
10–12	Cardio + hamstring activation
16	Incline treadmill, elliptical, strengthening
20–24	Balance drills, sport-specific movement
30	Functional test + return to activities