The patellar tendon connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia), allowing the knee to extend fully and bear weight. If this tendon is injured or ruptured, it typically requires surgical repair to restore function. At Twin Boro Physical Therapy in Newark, NJ, we guide patients through the challenges of post-operative care, helping them regain strength, mobility, and confidence after knee surgery.
Rehabilitation Goals after Patellar Tendon Repairs
Patellar tendon injuries can be particularly challenging to rehabilitate due to the tendon’s vital role in knee extension and load-bearing. Every patient’s recovery from patellar tendon repair surgery is unique, so a personalized approach to physical therapy is essential.
Twin Boro physical therapists work closely with each patient to develop a rehabilitation plan and provide ongoing support, education, and motivation. The primary goals of physical therapy after patellar tendon repair include:
- Gradual Reintroduction of Load-Bearing
Immediately after surgery, the knee is typically immobilized to allow the tendon to heal. While necessary, this immobilization can lead to muscle atrophy and joint stiffness. As a result, a gradual and carefully monitored approach to weight-bearing is essential.
At Twin Boro, therapists consider the patient’s specific condition, surgical details, and overall health. We begin with non-weight-bearing exercises to maintain muscle tone and prevent stiffness. As the tendon heals, partial weight-bearing exercises are gradually introduced using parallel bars or assistive devices to ensure safety and control. Eventually, full weight-bearing is reintroduced, with close attention to form and technique to prevent re-injury.
- Restoring Full Knee Extension
The ability to fully straighten the knee is essential for normal gait, balance, and functional activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and standing up from a seated position. However, achieving full knee extension can be challenging due to the stiffness and pain often accompanying surgical repair.
Twin Boro therapists emphasize gentle range-of-motion exercises early in recovery to promote knee extension without placing excessive stress on the healing tendon. Techniques such as passive stretching, active-assisted range-of-motion exercises, and manual therapy gradually increase knee extension. As the patient progresses, more dynamic exercises challenging the knee’s range of motion are incorporated while building strength and stability.
- Rebuilding Strength and Flexibility
Once weight-bearing and knee extension are successfully reintroduced, the focus shifts to rebuilding the strength and flexibility of the muscles and tendons surrounding the knee. The quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles support the knee and ensure proper movement patterns.
Strengthening exercises may include leg presses, quad sets, and hamstring curls. Flexibility exercises focus on maintaining and improving range of motion. Therapists also provide functional training exercises, such as step-ups, lunges, and balance drills, to regain confidence in their knees and prepare them for daily activities.
Get Back on Your Feet with Twin Boro PT
At Twin Boro Physical Therapy in Newark, NJ, our skilled team of physical therapists is committed to guiding you through every step of your patellar tendon repair recovery. From safely reintroducing load-bearing activities to achieving full knee extension and rebuilding strength, we provide the personalized care you need to reach your recovery goals. Our comprehensive approach to physical therapy ensures that you can confidently return to your active lifestyle after knee surgery.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 973.556.2459 or fill out an appointment request form on our website.
