This document outlines a home exercise program for recovery after knee arthroscopy surgery, provided by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).
The guide includes:
- **Introduction:** An overview of the importance of exercise for recovery and a note to consult with a surgeon or physical therapist before starting.
- **Initial Exercise Program:** Exercises focusing on muscle contractions (hamstring, quadriceps), straight leg raises, buttock tucks, and standing straight leg raises.
- **Intermediate Exercise Program:** Exercises including terminal knee extension, straight leg raises (variations), partial squats with chair support, and quadriceps stretches.
- **Advanced Exercise Program:** More complex exercises such as single-leg partial knee bends, forward and lateral step-ups, sitting terminal knee extensions, and hamstring stretches (supine and at wall).
- **Additional Activities:** Information on using an exercise bike, walking, and a note about when running can be resumed, along with advice on managing pain and swelling with RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation).
The document provides detailed instructions and progressions for each exercise, including advanced variations with added ankle weights, and advises consulting a doctor for any persistent symptoms. The purpose of the document is to provide a guide for home exercises to restore strength and mobility to the knee after arthroscopy.
