After tibial plateau surgery, you can typically begin bending your knee to 90 degrees approximately 1 week post-operation. Progression beyond 90 degrees is generally advised once the surgical incision has fully healed, which usually occurs 10 to 14 days after surgery.
Understanding the Progression of Knee Bending
The recovery process following tibial plateau surgery involves a gradual increase in knee flexion (bending) to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. This timeline is carefully managed to protect the repaired bone and surrounding tissues.
- Initial Bending (Up to 90 Degrees):
- Patients are typically cleared to start bending their knee to a 90-degree angle around 1 week after surgery. This initial phase helps to prevent stiffness and improve circulation without putting excessive stress on the healing fracture site.
- Advancing Beyond 90 Degrees:
- Once the surgical incision is completely healed, which usually takes between 10 to 14 days, you can begin to increase the range of motion past 90 degrees. This progression is crucial for regaining full flexibility and function. It's important to follow your surgeon's specific instructions and rehabilitation plan for this phase.
It's worth noting that if a tibial plateau fracture did not require surgery, knee bending could potentially begin immediately. However, for those who undergo surgery, a structured and cautious approach to rehabilitation is essential for optimal recovery. For more detailed information on recovery and exercises, you can consult resources such as articles on Tibial Plateau Fracture Treatment and Exercises.