Phase 1

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Days 1–7

• Range of motion (ROM) 0–60 degrees.

• Weightbearing with two crutches.

• Electrical muscle stimulation to quadriceps.

• Exercises

• Quadriceps sets.

• Straight leg raise (SLR).

• Hip adduction and abduction.

• Mini-squats/leg press (0–45 degrees).

Weeks 2–3

• ROM 0–60 degrees.

• Weightbearing without crutches.

• Progress exercises using weights.

• Bike (week 3) for ROM.

• Pool program

• Leg press (0–60 degrees).

 

Phase 2

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Week 3

• ROM to tolerance.

• Discontinue brace.

• Bike, Stairmaster, rowing.

• Progress exercises with weights.

• Mini-squat (0–60 degrees).

• Leg press (0–60 degrees).

• Step-ups.

• Hip abduction and adduction.

• Toe-calf raises.

Weeks 5–6

• Continue all exercises.

• Fit functional brace.

• Pool running.

 

Phase 3

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Weeks 8–12

• Begin running program.

• Continue all strengthening exercises.

• Gradual return to sports activities.

Criteria to return to sports:

• No change in laxity.

• No pain, tenderness, or swelling.

• Satisfactory clinical examination.

• Functional testing 85% of contralateral knee.

• Quadriceps strength 85% of contralateral knee.