A recent question came in asking about recovery from a "Knee Scope". Knee arthroscopies are one of the most common orthopedic procedures across the country, but it is important to keep in mind the the scope is only a tool, like a screw driver or a hammer. Much like a hammer, scopes can be used for a variety of reasons and the recovery is based on what was done to the knee. Most of the time, meniscal tears and loose bits of cartilage are trimmed.
In this instance, patients are encouraged to use the leg carefully, while the swelling and inflammation from the surgery quiets down. From there, it typically takes patients anywhere from 1-3 months to return to their "pre-surgery activity level". There are more involved surgeries that are done arthroscopically such as meniscal repairs, microfractures and cartilage transfers. These require slower and more involved rehabs. ACL reconstructions are also done arthroscopically, and these require a 6-12 month rehab. If you would like more info on my ACL rehab protocol, you can follow this link to our Patient Resources Page or The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.
