title: Rehabilitation of the arthrofibrotic knee.
abstract: This paper describes the postoperative rehabilitation of the arthrofibrotic knee, with specific emphasis on modern rehabilitation techniques. The significance of prevention and early recognition is discussed. The importance of early motion and patellar mobility is emphasized and specific exercises to prevent and treat stiffness are described. Continuous passive motion, bracing, and exercise--on the stationary bicycle, on the treadmill, and in water--are adjuncts in the program. Strengthening is added when motion is re-established and there is no swelling or pain. Sport-specific activities are added if progress is satisfactory and motion is maintained. If pain, swelling, or stiffness develops, exercises should be discontinued. Modalities such as cryotherapy, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, rest, and manipulation can be used judiciously. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications should be used to prevent inflammation, to control pain, and to allow more aggressive rehabilitative exercises.
authors.affiliation: Harvard Shoulder Service/Sports Medicine, Harvard Medical School, and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA. pmillett@partners.org
authors.forename: Peter J
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Millett
authors.forename: Burt
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Johnson
authors.forename: Jeff
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Carlson
authors.forename: Sumant
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Krishnan
authors.forename: J Richard
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Steadman
mesh_terms: D001168:Arthritis / Q000534:rehabilitation* / Q000601:surgery; D005355:Fibrosis; D006801:Humans; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000473:pathology* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery; D026301:Manipulation, Osteopathic; D015915:Motion Therapy, Continuous Passive; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D011184:Postoperative Period; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular