Introduction:

This surgical procedure has a lengthy rehabilitation process and we at the Jerusalem Sports Medical Institute recommend that the process begins approximately two months before the actual surgery date. This includes an intensive strengthening and neuromuscular- sensory program in order to ensure  that the injured limb, as well as the athlete as a whole, will approach the surgery in the best physical shape as possible. Detailed explanations and demonstrations are provided to the athlete regarding the surgical procedure, the preparation pre and post- surgery, as well as the rehabilitation process and the return to sport criteria.

Post Surgery:

We strongly recommend that the athlete begins the rehabilitation process as soon after the surgical procedure as possible, always considering the amount of pain and swelling that may exist in and around the knee. If possible, we begin the rehabilitation three days post -surgery and apart from modalities to reduce pain and swelling, rehabilitation begins with the Smartstep™ biofeedback system in order to achieve full weight bearing as soon as possible. The next week to 10 days continues with an exercise program highlighting range of movement and strengthening and utilizing high intensity electrical muscle stimulation as an adjunct in the therapy. By approximately the fifth meeting, the athlete should be fully weight bearing, have full extension of the knee and be well versed in the rehabilitation process. The athlete will then continue rehabilitation independently for the next 4-5 weeks.  In order to provide personal care during the whole process and reduce costs significantly, the athlete is strongly encouraged to join the Lerner Center for a 6- month period.

At six weeks: the athlete once again meets with the rehabilitation team and the following an   examination, a more advanced program is commenced for another 6 weeks.       

At 3 months:

Once again the program is changed with the final six weeks program involving more challenging activities, including jogging, jumping and pivoting type of exercises in addition to strengthening and neuromuscular sensory balance training.

Final Discharge Meeting: (5-6 months)

At this meeting, the athlete will be required to undergo a very rigid set of tests in order to fulfill adequate criteria both from a physical and psychological point of view before returning to sport. The athlete returns to sport in full agreement of the orthopedic surgeon as well as from the physiotherapy and sports team personal.

On average, there are a total of 6-9 meetings over the 6 month period.