Knee Dislocation Recovery: Timeline and Rehabilitation Phases

Knee dislocation (tibiofemoral dislocation) is a high-energy, limb-threatening injury involving multi-ligament tears (ACL, PCL, ±MCL, ±LCL/PLC) and frequent neurovascular injury (popliteal artery, peroneal nerve).

Recovery Phases

1. Emergent Reduction (0-24h): Closed reduction ASAP; assess pulses/ABI; CTA if any vascular concern. Immediate surgical exploration for hard signs of arterial injury.
2. Acute Stabilization (Weeks 1-2): Hinged knee brace locked in extension; NWB/WBAT per surgeon; DVT prophylaxis; wound care if surgery.
3. Early Rehab (Weeks 2-6): Passive/active-assisted ROM (0-90° → progressive); quadriceps sets, SLR; protect healing ligaments (especially PCL graft if reconstructed).
4. Progressive Strengthening (Weeks 6-12): Full ROM; closed-chain exercises (mini-squats, leg press); proprioception; bike, pool.
5. Advanced Rehab (Months 3-6): Running, agility, plyometrics; sport-specific drills; isokinetic testing.
6. Return to Sport (6-12+ months): Criteria-based: strength symmetry >90%, hop tests, psychological readiness.

Key Determinants of Outcome

• Number of ligaments reconstructed (bicruciate ± collateral).
• Associated injuries (meniscus, cartilage, nerve, artery).
• Timing of surgery (acute <3 weeks vs. delayed).
• Adherence to structured, criteria-based protocol.

Multidisciplinary team (orthopedics, vascular surgery, PT, sports med) optimizes outcomes. Return to high-level sport is possible but not guaranteed.