How will I manage at home and at work on crutches and a brace after meniscus repair?

Before surgery: prepare your home

• Move everyday items to waist height so you do not need to bend or kneel
• Clear rugs and cables from walkways
• Put a stable chair or stool in the shower and a non-slip mat on the floor
• Consider a raised toilet seat or a frame, especially if the bathroom has a low or floor-level toilet
• Arrange to sleep on the ground floor for the first week if stairs are difficult
• Plan lifts to appointments, since you should not drive in the early weeks

Using crutches and the brace

Your physiotherapist will show you how much weight to put through the leg, which depends on the type of repair. Many repairs allow partial weight-bearing with the brace locked straight, while root repairs and some others need weeks of protected weight-bearing. Keep the brace on when walking and sleeping if instructed, and remove it only for exercises and washing as advised.

Washing, sleeping and wound care

Keep the dressings dry until your team says otherwise; a waterproof cover helps in the shower. Sit to wash rather than standing on one leg. At night, lie on your back with the leg supported straight, not with a pillow behind the knee, which encourages stiffness. Elevate the leg above heart level for periods during the day to control swelling.

Returning to work

Desk-based work is often possible within one to two weeks if you can keep the leg up and reach the office safely. Jobs involving standing, ladders, kneeling or site work usually need several weeks to a few months. Dr. Gelber's team at Aman Hospital in Doha can provide a medical report for your employer with the expected restrictions.