From Laura Inverarity, D.O.,
Your Guide to Physical Therapy.
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About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Kate Grossman, MD

After undergoing knee arthroscopy, it is important to begin exercising your knee immediately to restore strength and full range of motion. Initial exercises should be non-weight bearing in nature, and should focus on gentle strengthening of the muscles surrounding the knee as well as increasing joint range of motion.

As always, you should discuss starting any exercise program with your orthopedic surgeon prior to initiating it. Most physicians will approve an early rehabilitation program, however others may ask you to wait a week or so after your procedure.

Initially, you will experience some swelling and discomfort in the knee for a few days post operatively. You will most likely be given a prescription for pain medication and an anti-inflammatory drug to help alleviate these symptoms.

You should expect to feel a gentle stretch while performing your beginning exercises, but you should not experience any pain. Any activity that causes significant discomfort should be stopped immediately. It is also a good idea to ice and elevate your leg after performing these exercises to decrease any increase in swelling.

The following exercises are appropriate for immediate post-arthroscopy rehabilitation. The movements should be gentle and steady. Bouncing or over-stretching should be avoided. Read on to review these four exercises.