Meniscus Tear: Rehabilitation Exercises

Overview

A meniscus tear is a common knee joint injury. How well the knee will heal and whether surgery will be needed depends in large part on the type of tear and how bad the tear is. Work with your doctor to plan a rehabilitation (rehab) program that helps you regain as much strength and flexibility in your knee as possible. Your rehab program probably will include physical therapy and home exercises.

Exercises that might be prescribed for rehab are listed here. Work with your doctor and physical therapist to design a program that will best help you reach your rehab goals.

• A coordinated program of physical therapy and home exercises can advance healing in your knee and help you return to desired activities.
• Building strength and flexibility in your knee and legs may help prevent future degeneration in your knee.

How do I do exercise to heal my meniscus?

For most tears, some simple exercises can help maintain muscle strength in the front of the thigh (quadriceps), back of the thigh (hamstrings), calf, and hip. All of these areas are important for your overall leg function while your knee heals after an injury or after surgery. Exercises should only be done on the advice of your doctor and only if you feel very minimal or no pain while you do them at home.