Microfracture of the Femoral Condyle
Phase I (Weeks 0-8)
- Weightbearing: Touchdown weightbearing (20-30% of body weight max) for 6-8 weeks – No Bracing Required
- Range of Motion – Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) Machine for 6-8 hours per day for 6-8 weeksSet CPM to 1 cycle per minute – starting at level of flexion that is comfortableAdvance 10° per day until full flexion is achievedPassive Range of Motion and stretching under guidance of PT
- Set CPM to 1 cycle per minute – starting at level of flexion that is comfortable
- Advance 10° per day until full flexion is achieved
- Passive Range of Motion and stretching under guidance of PT
- Therapeutic ExercisesQuadriceps/Hamstring isometricsHeel slides
- Quadriceps/Hamstring isometrics
- Heel slides
Phase II (Weeks 8-12)
- Weightbearing: Advance to full weightbearing as tolerated — discontinue crutch use
- Range of Motion – Advance to full/painless ROM
- Therapeutic ExercisesClosed chain extension exercisesHamstring curlsToe raisesBalance exercisesBegin use of the stationary bicycle/elliptical
- Closed chain extension exercises
- Hamstring curls
- Toe raises
- Balance exercises
- Begin use of the stationary bicycle/elliptical
Phase III (Months 3-6)
- Advance closed chain strengthening exercises, proprioception activities
- Sport-specific rehabilitation
- Therapeutic Exercises
- Range of Motion – Full/Painless ROM
- Weightbearing: Full weightbearing
- Gradual return to athletic activity as tolerated – including jumping/cutting/pivoting sports
- Maintenance program for strength and endurance