How long will I be on crutches after a meniscal root repair?

Why the protection is so strict

Every step squeezes the meniscus outward and pulls on the repaired root. Until the root has healed to bone, that pull could stretch or loosen the repair. This is why root repair recovery is slower than many other knee keyhole operations, and why following the plan matters as much as the surgery itself.

A typical timeline

• Weeks 0 to 6: crutches with touch or no weight-bearing, often a hinged brace, bending usually limited to around 90 degrees, exercises to keep the knee straight and the thigh muscle working
• Weeks 6 to 8: gradual increase to full weight, stopping crutches as walking becomes steady
• Weeks 8 to 16: strengthening, exercise bike, pool work and balance training
• From about 4 months: deeper bending and more demanding activity introduced cautiously
• Deep loaded squatting is usually avoided for around four to six months, and some surgeons advise limiting it long term

Your own plan depends on the repair and any added procedure such as an osteotomy.

Work, driving and home

People with desk jobs often return in around two to four weeks if they can get to work safely and keep the leg up. Jobs involving standing, climbing or heavy work usually need several months or modified duties. Driving is generally not possible while you are non-weight-bearing on the right leg. At home, a shower chair, a raised toilet seat and someone to help in the first weeks make life easier.

Warning signs

Contact Aman Hospital in Doha promptly if you develop calf pain or swelling, chest pain or breathlessness, fever, increasing redness or discharge from a wound, or sudden new pain with a pop. Blood clot prevention is usually advised after this surgery because of reduced mobility.