Physical Therapy After Knee Surgery in Millburn NJ

For runners, knee surgery can be a daunting setback. Whether recovering from an ACL repair, meniscus surgery, or a total knee replacement, getting back to running requires a focused and sport-specific approach to rehabilitation. For runners in Millburn, NJ, Twin Boro Physical Therapy offers customized physical therapy programs to restore your performance and prevent future injuries. 

Our Approach to Runner’s Rehab 

Running places unique stresses on the knee joint due to its repetitive and dynamic nature. These stresses include:

1. Impact Forces: With each stride, the knee absorbs forces up to three times your body weight, which can strain the joint and surrounding muscles, especially if they are weakened post-surgery.
2. Repetitive Motion: Running involves continuous, repetitive motion that can lead to overuse injuries, particularly in the knee, if solid and stable muscles are not adequately supporting the joint.
3. Dynamic Movements: The knee must adapt to changes in speed, direction, and terrain, requiring it to remain stable while allowing for a full range of motion. This is particularly challenging after surgery when the knee may be more vulnerable.

At Twin Boro, we develop customized therapy programs that address these biomechanical demands, focusing on restoring the knee’s strength, stability, and flexibility. These programs include: 

1. Targeted Strength Training: To counteract the impact forces and repetitive motion stresses of running, we focus on building strength in muscle groups that support the knee, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. Strengthening these muscles helps absorb the impact of running and reduces strain on the knee joint. Exercises like leg presses, squats, and lunges are tailored to your recovery stage and gradually increase in intensity as your knee heals.
2. Balance and Stability Work: Stability is crucial for handling the dynamic movements of running, especially on uneven terrain or during sudden speed changes. Rehabilitation at Twin Boro includes balance and proprioception exercises—such as single-leg stands, balance board drills, and core strengthening—to enhance knee stability and improve your body’s ability to maintain proper running alignment.
3. Gait Analysis and Running Mechanics: Therapists conduct gait analysis to identify biomechanical issues, such as improper foot strike or hip alignment, that could contribute to knee strain. Based on this analysis, tailored corrections and drills are provided to improve running mechanics, making your stride more efficient and reducing the risk of future injuries.
4. Gradual Return to Running: A phased approach to reintroducing running begins with low-impact activities like walking or cycling and gradually. As strength and confidence grow, short, controlled running intervals are introduced to ensure your knee is ready for running without prematurely overloading it. 
5. Injury Prevention Education: Patients gain the knowledge and tools to promote long-term knee health. This includes guidance on proper warm-up routines, stretching exercises, and choosing the right footwear. Twin Boro therapists also emphasize the importance of listening to your body and recognizing early signs of overuse to prevent setbacks.

Get Back on Track with Twin Boro Physical Therapy 

Returning to running after knee surgery requires a dedicated approach and expert guidance. At Twin Boro Physical Therapy in Millburn, NJ, our specialized runner’s rehabilitation programs address the unique demands of running. Focusing on targeted strength training, balance and stability work, gait analysis, and a gradual return to running, our expert team of physical therapists helps runners recover from knee surgery and minimize the risk of re-injury. With comprehensive rehabilitation and injury prevention education, you can protect your knee and confidently get back on track. 

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 973.258.1900 or complete an appointment request form online!