Knee Rehabilitation Exercises

All video files use Windows Media.

A knee rehabilitation program routinely starts with application of Pre-Rehabilitation Modalities.

Modalities

Stretching follows modalities to redevelop Range of Motion

Hamstrings-

Supine   Bent Supine

Seated

Quads- 

Figure Four  Figure Four Low

Quad Sets

During initial rehabilitation an athlete may begin with simple exercises known as Quad Sets. In this exercise the athlete tightens his/her quadriceps(muscle in the front of the thigh) and holds for a specified time 5 seconds and rest 1 second. As the athlete gains strength, weight may be added in a facilitated exercise.

Quad set video

Quad Set- with pillow to lengthen ac

Quad Set Facilitated (with weight)

Heel Slides

With heel slides the athlete works on knee flexion

Heel Slides

Heel Slides- with assistance/resistance

Total Knee Extension(TKE)

When athlete can bear weight he/she may work on total knee extension.

TKE (Resistance here is from back- can be from in front)

Straight Leg Program

In the next stage of rehabilitation an athlete may move to straight leg raises with or without weights.

Flat                 Abduction  

On Elbows      Adduction

On Arms           Hip Flexion

Standing Straight Leg Program

Hip flexors, extensors, abductors, and adductors are strengthened to develop overall knee/hip stability. Resistance can be provided by wall pulleys or elastic band.

Hip flexors              Hip Flexors(forward)         Hip extensors

Hip abductors         Hip adductors

Squats

Squats are added to the program using elastic tubing as resistance.

Wall Squats- with exercise ball

1/4 and Full Squats

Squats with Ball

Functional Exercises

Finally, rehabilitation moves to functional exercises. These are primarily slides and skill developing exercises.

Slide Right                      Slide Left

Slide Forward                Slide Back

Trampoline Stand           Trampoline Catch

 

The athlete will begin standard running, coordination, and agility exercises if able to perform the above exercises.  See our Agility and Coordination Page

 

Click  Here to see a Typical Knee Rehabilitation Program

 

Note- these protocols are for general information and do not constitute a complete evaluation by a physician, physical therapist, athletic Trainer, or other health care professional.