Why is my knee tight during exercise after meniscus surgery?

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I had knee surgery in which they removed a torn meniscus. I am ok from that, but when I exercise the back of my knee gets very tight. Why and what can I do to get better?

Disclaimer: Please note, this reply is for informational purposes only. It’s not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, physical therapist, or other qualified health provider with a medical condition.

Things to Know

  • Tightness behind the knee can result from muscular tightness or joint tightness.
  • In general we recommend stretching after activity.
  • A physical therapist is qualified to perform an examination of the knee joint and properly prescribe exercises to address any areas of tightness and help improve the way the knee functions.

Although I am unable to provide you with specific information on your knee without doing an examination, I can provide you with some general information.

Tightness behind the knee can result from muscular tightness or joint tightness. 

Muscular tightness can be eliminated through stretching exercises targeted to the hamstring and calf muscles. Joint tightness is tightness of the joint capsule, which is tissue that encloses the knee joint. Any one of these structures can tighten down as a result of trauma or ongoing mechanical problems in the knee, hip, ankle, or low back. 

In general we recommend stretching after activity. It’s also a good idea to ice after activity when the activity has been strenuous. If these symptoms do not go away in a couple weeks, consultation from a physical therapist may be appropriate.

A physical therapist is qualified to perform an examination of the knee joint and properly prescribe exercises to address any areas of tightness and help improve the way the knee functions.

To locate a Therapeutic Associates practitioner near you, visit our clinic locator here.

Please note, this reply is for informational purposes only. It’s not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, physical therapist, or other qualified health provider with a medical condition.

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