KNEE PATELLAR INSTABILITY
REHABILITATION
All exercises should not cause increased pain or swelling. Work up to at least 3 sets of 20 repetitions, at least 4 days a week. See Fig 2-7.
Fig 2: Quadricepts Isometrics. Lie with leg straight,
tighten quad as you push the back of the knee flat on the ground. Hold and repeat.
Fig 3: Short Arc Quadriceps. Place a roll or bolster under the knee, and tighten the front of the thigh while lifting the heel off the floor. Hold and repeat.
Fig 4: Hip Extension. Lie on your back with knees bent. Raise hips/buttocks off the floor, keeping the pelvis straight. Start with two feet on the floor progress to one on the floor.
Fig 5: Isometric Quadriceps Strengthening. Sit with knee bent 75- 90 degrees. Palpate the muscle just above the kneecap on the inside of the thigh (VMO). Push foot into the floor, tightening the thigh, concentrate on the VMO. Hold and repeat.
Fig 6: Standing Quarter Squats. Start standing with weight on both legs,
then progress to weight on the affected leg. Do not bend more that 45 degrees.
Fig 7: Leg Press. These are best done with one leg at a time always with a low weight and high repetitions.
Do not bend the knees further than 45 degrees.
Stationary bike and elliptical are also recommended.
