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7. Lateral Retinacular Release Protocol

Lateral Retinacular Release Protocol

Post Operative:

Hinged knee brace locked @ 30 degrees

Full-weightbearing with crutches

Ice to knee at all times

Elevate the knee above the heart at all times

Pain Management:

·         Pain pills prescribed postoperatively

·         If pain relief not adequate, add an over-the-counter nonsteroidal, such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, Nuprin) or naproxen (Aleve). Do not take more acetaminophen (Tylenol) in addition to the prescribed pain pill ( that pain pill already has Tylenol in it)

Day 2:

Remove the post operative dressings

Initiate showers (no baths) out of brace, then dry leg, rewrap with Ace and replay brace

Follow up @ 10-14 days post-op:

Discontinue brace

Full weight bearing

IF swelling and pain level appropriate:

·         PT for range of motion, quad strengthening ( 2 times a week for 6 weeks)

Follow up @ 6 weeks

Initiate jogging, bicycle as pain allows

May start low intensity sport specific activities

Continue with daily home exercise program

Follow up @ 3 months

May start sports practices, and then resume sports competition as tolerated

Patellar stabilizing brace as needed