In collaboration with Xpert Clinics

Meniscus injury

Not every meniscus tear needs surgery. Research shows that well-structured physiotherapy is just as effective as an operation for many people. We map your condition and build a programme together, aimed at strength, mobility and a gradual increase in load.

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Rehabilitation after meniscus surgery at Movement Based Therapy

What does rehabilitation after meniscus surgery look like?

After meniscus surgery you can usually go home the same day. Depending on the procedure, you walk on crutches for the first 6 weeks to offload the knee. We often come to your home in those first weeks to answer your questions and go through the first exercises you can do at home.

In the months that follow, you progress through different phases of recovery. Roughly from slow, controlled exercises to faster and less controlled movements. The timeframes for each phase are guidelines. We use measurement points and goals to determine which phase you are in and when you are ready for the next.

This way, we build up over about 6 months towards a "return to play" milestone. That means after this period you take part in the sport you practised before the surgery.

Testing and measurement during meniscus rehabilitation
Training during meniscus rehabilitation

Which tests are done during rehabilitation after meniscus surgery?

During meniscus rehabilitation you will go through different tests depending on the phase. We measure strength, test jump forms and use various questionnaires. These tests determine whether it is safe enough to progress to the next phase and ultimately whether you have completed your rehabilitation.

The phases are "criteria based", meaning you progress to the next phase when you meet the criteria for the current one. This varies per person. In the clinic we use force plates, which can map very precisely how much force you can produce and whether it is evenly distributed between both legs.

Collaboration with Xpert Clinics

Our clinic has a working partnership with Xpert Clinics. Within this collaboration, the specialists trust the quality of our rehabilitation programmes. Conversely, we have great confidence in the way Xpert Clinics treat patients.

The specialists often say that without good rehabilitation, surgery makes little sense. That is why the combination of physiotherapy and orthopaedics matters so much in these cases. It significantly increases the quality of the rehabilitation.

Consultation and collaboration with Xpert Clinics
● CONDITIONS

Common meniscus conditions

An overview of the most common meniscus conditions we treat.

01

Acute meniscus tear

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02

Degenerative tear

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03

Bucket-handle

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04

Locking and blockage

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05

General knee pain

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06

Combined with ACL

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07

Post-operative

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08

Conservative programme

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● WHY MBT

What sets us apart.

01

Conservative first, where possible

Research shows that physiotherapy is just as effective as surgery for many meniscus injuries. We build a programme around strength, mobility and a gradual increase in load.

02

Criteria-based rehabilitation

You only progress to the next phase once the criteria are met. Not on the clock, on data. That can vary from person to person.

03

Force plates for strength measurement

Precise measurement of strength differences between both legs, in every phase. We see what the eye misses.

04

Close link with Xpert Clinics

Working partnership with the orthopaedic surgeons at Xpert Clinics. Multidisciplinary collaboration before and after surgery.

05

Home visits in the first weeks

For post-operative recovery we often come to your home in the first weeks. Answering questions, going through exercises, getting you well on your way.

● OUR METHOD

Our unique method

Repeat.
01 / PHASE 1

Discover

Every treatment starts with a thorough intake. This gives us a complete picture of your physical health, movement patterns and mental well-being. We take a holistic approach and look beyond physical symptoms alone. Think sleep habits, nutrition, hydration, movement and daily stress factors.

Discover phase, intake at Movement Based Therapy
02 / PHASE 2

Educate

Understanding your condition is the key to lasting recovery. We make sure you understand where your symptoms come from and how to manage them. This helps you recognise your body's signals and prevent future issues.

Educate phase at Movement Based Therapy
03 / PHASE 3

Recreate

We work through a tailored programme that targets weaknesses in the body. Movement is at the centre of our treatment method. With specific exercises tuned to you, we build your body's capacity to handle load and help you develop sustainable movement habits. This reduces the chance of recurring symptoms.

Recreate phase at Movement Based Therapy
04 / PHASE 4

Evaluate

Evaluation is an essential part of our approach. We monitor your progress regularly and adjust the treatment plan when needed. This keeps the therapy aligned with your goals and needs at every stage of the process.

Evaluate phase at Movement Based Therapy
● FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does every meniscus tear need surgery?

No. Research shows that well-structured physiotherapy is just as effective as surgery for many people. The choice depends on the type of tear, the symptoms and your sporting goals. When in doubt, we consult with your treating specialist.

How long does rehabilitation after meniscus surgery take?

The guideline is around 6 months to return-to-play. But it is criteria-based: you only progress to the next phase when the criteria are met. This varies per person.

What are force plates?

Force plates precisely measure the force you push through your feet into the ground. We use them to objectively map the strength difference between both legs in every phase.

Do you work with Xpert Clinics?

Yes, we have a working partnership with Xpert Clinics. A close link with the orthopaedic surgeons, with multidisciplinary collaboration before and after surgery.

Can I rehabilitate with you if I had surgery elsewhere?

Yes. We work with your treating specialist regardless of where you had surgery. A good handover is important.

What is "criteria based" rehabilitation?

It means you progress to the next phase once you meet the criteria for the current one. Not based on time, but on measurable goals for strength, mobility and function. This prevents returning to sport too early.

Which locations can I visit?

Three locations in Amsterdam: Houthavens in Amsterdam-West, NDSM in Amsterdam-North and Oostenburg in Amsterdam-East. Book at the location that suits you best.

Related services

01

Knee pain

General treatment of knee conditions and knee injuries.

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02

Post-surgery rehabilitation

Structured rehabilitation after knee surgery through to full recovery.

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03

Sports physiotherapy

Sport-specific rehabilitation with return-to-sport criteria.

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3Locations · Amsterdam
64+Google reviews · 5★
12yrClinical experience
1500+Athletes treated
● LOCATIONS

Three locations in amsterdam

01

Houthavens

Nieuwe Hemweg 7T
1013BG Amsterdam

View location → Directions ↗
02

NDSM

Scannerstraat 7
1033RV Amsterdam

View location → Directions ↗
03

Oostenburg

Jacob Bontiusplaats 40
1018LL Amsterdam

View location → Directions ↗

Get moved.

Book an intake at the location that suits you best. Questions about how we work? Get in touch.

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● WHAT PATIENTS SAY
★★★★★ 5.0 based on 64 Google reviews
View on Google →
★★★★★
I received excellent care and guidance throughout my ACL and meniscus surgery journey. From the preparation phase to the recovery process, I felt fully supported with a clear plan and weekly progression.
Simon10 months ago
★★★★★
Cedrine helped me enormously with my recovery from recurring knee complaints. Within a few months the strength difference between both legs was minimal.
Gwen Kuijer1 year ago
★★★★★
Cedrine and Lisa have been instrumental in my recovery from a meniscus surgery. From the moment we started, they took the time to deeply understand the nature of my injury.
Rik12 months ago