At this phase of rehabilitation after posterolateral corner surgery, the focus is upon range of motion.

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

 

Phase 4.  Weeks 7-8 (Visits: 1-2)

Phase 4 of rehabilitation focuses on re-establishing stable weight-bearing and building up the range of motion.

 

General observation Full weight bearing with cane when:

- Pain controlled

- Hemarthrosis controlled

- ROM 0-120°

- Voluntary quad contraction achieved
 
  Custom medial unloader brace or hinged soft tissue brace  
Evaluation   Goals
  Pain Mild/No RSD
  Effusion Minimal
  Patellar mobility Good
  ROM 0-120 degrees
  Muscle control 4/5
  Inflammatory response None
Frequency   Duration
  Range of motion  
2x/day, 10 mins ROM 0°-120°  
  Patella mobilization  
  Hamstring, gastroc-soleus stretches 5 reps x 30 secs
  Strengthening  
2x/day, 20 mins Straight leg raises (flexion, extension, abduction, adduction) 3 sets x 10 reps
  Straight leg raises, rubber tubing 3 sets x 30 reps
  Knee extension (active, 90°-30°) 3 sets x 10 reps
  Closed-chain  
  - Wall sits to fatigue x3
  - Mini-squats (rubber tubing, 0°-30°) 3 sets x 20 reps
  Balance training  
3x/day, 5 mins Cup walking  
  Aerobic conditioning  
1-2x/day, 15 mins UBC  
  Stationary bicycle  
  Gait retraining  
  Progress program  
  Continue to observe for varus thrust, hyperextension  
  Modalities  
As required electrical muscle stimulation 20 minutes
  cryotherapy 20 minutes
Goals Full weight bearing  
  Muscle control  
  Control inflammation, effusion  
  ROM 0°-120°  

 


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