Recovery from MPFL reconstruction

Recovery from MPFL reconstruction protects the healing ligament first, then restores knee movement, strength, balance, and confidence through staged rehabilitation. Your surgeon may set limits on brace use, knee flexion, and weight-bearing. Progress is based on examination and function rather than a calendar alone.

The medial patellofemoral ligament helps guide the kneecap and resist outward movement. Reconstruction replaces or reinforces this restraint after recurrent instability or a [Patellar Dislocation]. Early swelling and stiffness are common, while the quadriceps may become weak quickly. The knee can feel uncertain even when the incision looks settled, so controlled rehabilitation matters.

Use the brace, crutches, and weight-bearing instructions provided. Work on swelling control, safe range of motion, quadriceps activation, and gradual leg strengthening. Later stages add balance, step control, and activity-specific drills. Do not test pivoting, jumping, or cutting until your team clears them. Follow the plan for [MPFL Reconstruction] and attend reviews so movement and kneecap tracking can be checked.

Contact the surgical team for increasing redness, drainage, fever, worsening pain, or a sudden loss of movement. Seek urgent help for severe calf swelling or pain, chest pain, marked breathlessness, or fainting. Report a new kneecap shift, a fall, or a giving-way episode promptly, even if the knee settles afterward.

Ask what range of motion and weight-bearing are allowed, how to manage swelling, and which exercises should wait. Ask what strength or movement milestones guide return to work, driving, running, and pivoting sports. Clarify what to do if the kneecap feels unstable.