Knee exercises post arthroscopic surgery

[FishrCutB8]

My doc told me I could go back tot he gym after surgery: I had a bilateral patellar release,a minor tear on the left meniscus and a significant tear on the right. I go the operation on the 26th of December.

Since then:
ROM exercises--bending knee toward butt; also pushing leg straight out and pushing knee into ground.
Strength--started with lying on my back and doing straight leg lifts, and side (scissors) lifts.

Now:
Quads--45 degree leg press
Hamstrings--seated leg curls (http://www.exrx.net/WeightExercises/...edLegCurl.html)
Calves--45 degree toe flexes

The doctor said to focus on these three muscle groups, but not to do exercises that bear weight (like squats).

Are there other exercises that help meet these parameters?

Should I start doing abductors and adductors too?

Anything else I missed?

[Bill Hartman]

Uh, leg presses don't "bear weight"???

If you're doc doesn't want you to squat, how did he recommend you sit on the toilet?

Are you in PT? Did they talk about partial squats, step-ups, or anything related to real life?

Bill

[FishrCutB8]

Not in PT, but I have access to one. My doctor is kind of "old school" with re: to post-op, which is why I wanted to ask here....

[Bill Hartman]

Perhaps a PT referral would be of benefit???

Bill

[DeadOnArrival]

I had 2/3 of my later meniscus removed in june last year. I can squat and lunge ok, and have full ROM in the joint. The problem is my knee still clicks and pops and feels sore occasionally. I cant do things like cross my knees or do stretches that apply lateral forces.

Do you think some wobble board/dura disc exercises may be of benefit?

[russ]

Originally posted by FishrCutB8:
Not in PT, but I have access to one. My doctor is kind of "old school" with re: to post-op, which is why I wanted to ask here....

I agree with Bill. Consult a PT if you have access to one.

[DeadOnArrival]

Bah to the physical therapist.

Have the time they dont know jack anyway. Of course some do. I find the best approach is to educate yourself and do what works for you.

Obviously you need to know whats going on with the injury, but half the time PT's get you doing useless exercises like hip ab and adduction. How's that going to help me stay together when I do something stupid on my snowboard?