Knee Rehabilitation

Knee Rehabilitation refers to the structured recovery process designed to restore strength, mobility, stability, and function of the knee joint after injury, surgery, or prolonged pain conditions. It is a vital component in helping patients regain independence and return to daily activities, sports, or work safely.

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Causes for Rehabilitation Needs:

Knee rehabilitation may be required following various conditions, such as ligament injuries (ACL, PCL, MCL, LCL tears), meniscus injuries, fractures, patellofemoral pain syndrome, tendinitis, or after surgical interventions like knee replacement or arthroscopy. Degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis also frequently necessitate guided rehabilitation. Without proper rehab, patients risk chronic pain, stiffness, instability, or reinjury.  Injury to the knee also affects the balance and stability of the ankle, which contributes to postural and gait abnormalities.

 

Phases of Knee Rehabilitation:

Rehabilitation typically follows structured phases:

1. Acute Phase: Focuses on pain management, reducing swelling, and gently restoring mobility & stability of the joint.

2. Strengthening Phase: Incorporates progressive exercises to rebuild quadriceps, hamstrings, gluteals, and calf muscles, which are essential for knee stability.

3. Functional Phase: Emphasises balance, coordination, and functional movements like squats, step-ups, and gait training.

4. Return-to-Sport/Activity Phase: High-level drills, agility training, and sport-specific exercises are added for athletes.

 

Role of Physiotherapy:

Physiotherapists play a central role in guiding safe and effective recovery. Core interventions include:

• Manual therapy and mobilisations to restore joint motion.

• Strengthening exercises (like straight leg raises, mini squats, resistance band work).

• Balance and proprioception training to prevent falls and reinjury.

• Neuromuscular re-education for proper movement mechanics.

• Gait retraining for restoring a normal walking pattern.

• Use of modalities such as cryotherapy, heat, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation for pain and swelling control.

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Prevention and Long-Term Care:

Physiotherapy also focuses on educating patients about proper footwear, safe return-to-sport timelines, and home exercise programs to promote overall well-being. Consistent rehabilitation not only speeds up recovery but also reduces the risk of future knee problems.

With structured knee rehabilitation under the guidance of a physiotherapist, patients can achieve improved mobility, enhanced strength, and the confidence to return to an active lifestyle.