REHABILITATION PROGRAMS FOLLOWING ARTHROSCOPIC MENISCECTOMY IN ATHLETES

The athlete with a meniscal injury can be returned to activity quickly and safely with appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, When injuri es occur in the relatively avascular inner zones of the meniscus, part ial meniscectomy is usually the treatment of choice. The rehabilitatio n programme should emphasise decreasing inflammation, restoring motion , increasing strength, and safe return to competition, This can begin preoperatively and progress through a phased programme which allows th e athlete to participate in goal setting and advancement, By outlining the different phases of knee rehabilitation, the athlete and support team (coach, parent, trainer, therapist, physician) can progress to an d plan appropriate return to sport. During this process, preventive me asures for reinjury can be addressed, thereby maximising performance a nd safety.