Recovery from microfracture surgery can begin in the recovery room, almost as soon as the surgery is completed. Through several different stages, a patient can work his way back to a full range of motion with little-to-no stiffness or pain. The right exercises can increase the rate of cartilage regeneration and help patients return to sports and other activities in as few as four months in some cases. Always follow the advice of your doctor and therapist regarding the progression of your therapy.
Microfracture Surgery
Microfracture surgery is performed while the patient is anesthetized with a local, spinal, or general anesthetic. Through a 1/4 inch long cut on the knee, doctors insert a camera and work directly on the knee joint, making tiny holes in the bone near the damaged cartilage, thus releasing cells that will facilitate cartilage regeneration.
Continuous Passive Motion Exercise
Physical therapy begins with a continuous passive motion machine. The CPM is used to gently exercise your leg for 6 to 8 hours a day for several weeks. Patients also take home a CPM to continue their rehabilitation.
Stationary Bike
According to the Animal Physiology Class at Davidson College, patients can begin using a stationary bike as part of their recovery in addition to the CPM machines. A stationary bike will increase the patient's range of motion, improve muscular strength and prevent atrophy of the leg muscles.
Water Rehabilitation Exercises
In addition to riding the stationary bike, water rehabilitation exercises are also an effective method of rehabilitation. Deep water running can slowly increase the patient's muscle stamina and strength without bearing the brunt of a patient's bodyweight.
Resistance Exercises
About two months after microfracture surgery, patients can begin gentle resistance exercises. Using elastic bands with flexion exercises like a leg extension is a good way to start. At this point in the recovery period, patients can begin moving slowly into weight-bearing exercises like gently walking without crutches and allowing the knee to carry the body weight.
Jogging and Jumping
At about 3 to 4 months after surgery, patients may begin jogging and running. However, it may take up to 4 to 6 months after surgery before patients can do explosive movements like jumping, twisting and cutting. Athletes may need to participate in sports-specific training after they are cleared to start running before returning to their specific sports.
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