Phase 1 (0-4 weeks)
- Brace locked in full extension for 2 weeks
- At 2 weeks unlock to 45 degrees
- Non Weight bearing
- Reduce swelling and minimise pain
- Passive range of movements and patella mobilisation
- Quadriceps exercises 90-0 degrees
- No Hamstring curls or heel slides allowed
- Straight leg raise and hip abduction and extension exercises
- Calf and Hamstring stretch
- No driving for 6 weeks
Phase 2 (4-12 weeks)
At 4-6 weeks
- Unlock brace to allow 90 degrees flexion
- Allow passive flexion by pushing using opposite foot
- Open chain quadriceps from 90-0
- Start weight bearing
At 6-12 weeks
- Start full weight bearing
- Restore gait pattern
- Remove brace at 8 weeks for PCL and 12 weeks for PCL+PLC
- Start mini squats
- Exercise bike without resistance- seat high
- Cross trainer/eliptical
- Proprioceptive exercises- single leg stance and dips
- Pool therapy allowed
- Note: Avoid open chain Hamstring exercises for 4 months
Phase 3 (3 months to 6 months)
- Regain full range of motion
- Continue open chain quadriceps work
- Improve function, strength, power and endurance
- Treadmill and 30 minute power walk
- No running
- Regain atleast 80% quadriceps strength
- Neuromuscular control
Phase 4
- Increase endurance and neuromuscular training
- Start jumps and side stepping
- Sports specific training
- Aim to return to sport between 10-12 months
