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MPFL Reconstruction Rehab

After MPFL reconstruction (medial patellofemoral ligament) for recurrent patellar dislocation, a structured rehab pathway follows with a brace, graded mobility progression and quadriceps strengthening. We work in four phases — until the patella tracks reliably again, even in competitive sport.

Key facts

Who this rehab is for

The rehab phases

Phase 1 — Protection phase

Weeks 0–4: knee brace with a flexion limit, partial weight-bearing adapted to pain, isometric quadriceps activation.

Phase 2 — Mobility progression

Weeks 4–8: progressively extending the flexion limit, full weight-bearing, normalising the gait pattern, targeted quadriceps training.

Phase 3 — Strength building

Months 2–4: leg press, squats with dosed loads, monitoring patellar tracking under load.

Phase 4 — Return to sport

Months 4–6: return-to-running progression, jumps, changes of direction, sport-specific load tests before competition clearance.

What is different after an MPFL reconstruction

In an MPFL reconstruction, a tendon graft (frequently from the gracilis) is fixed in place as the new medial patellofemoral ligament — it replaces the torn or insufficient ligament that keeps the patella tracking correctly. This graft has to heal biologically and remodel over time, which takes several months. The most delicate movement in this phase is deep flexion under load, because it puts direct pull on the graft. What we do: keep the knee mobile within the allowed angles, activate the quadriceps in a targeted way and monitor patellar tracking under carefully dosed load.

The operating clinic’s protocol applies

We work regularly with knee surgeons in the region and implement each clinic’s aftercare protocol 1:1. The differences between an isolated MPFL reconstruction and combined procedures with trochleoplasty or tibial tubercle transfer are clear — we follow the specific procedure.

What makes MTT different with us

Medical training therapy (MTT) does not happen in a back room but in the main area of our Sport Performance Center — with the same equipment professionals train on. For MPFL rehab this means isokinetic quadriceps strength testing compared side to side, dosed leg press and squat work with patellar tracking control, single-leg jump tests on force plates and change-of-direction drills. Your return to sport is based on data — not on the calendar. Read more about our treatment methods.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to wear the knee brace?

Typically 6 weeks, with the flexion limit progressively extended week by week (often 0–30 degrees in the first 2 weeks, then 0–60, then 0–90). The brace protects the new MPFL graft from excessive pull — it is worn strictly according to the clinic protocol.

When can I walk with full weight-bearing again?

Full weight-bearing is typically possible step by step from weeks 2–4, depending on the clinic protocol and pain. Supported by crutches in the first weeks, then progressively without aids. Clearance for loading is guided by quadriceps strength and the quality of your gait pattern.

When can I do sport again?

Light sport (cycling, swimming) typically from month 3, the return-to-running progression from month 4, jumps and changes of direction from months 5–6. Full-contact sport and competition loading after 6–9 months — depending on jump tests, strength symmetry and sport-specific load tolerance. Not on the calendar.

How high is the risk of another patellar dislocation?

An MPFL reconstruction clearly reduces the risk of re-dislocation compared with conservative treatment. The evidence shows a re-dislocation risk in the single-digit percentage range after reconstruction. What matters is the structured building of quadriceps strength and patellar tracking control — returning to full loading too early risks re-injury.

Does accident insurance (UVG) cover my MPFL rehab?

After a documented sports-related patellar dislocation and subsequent surgery, Swiss accident insurance (UVG) covers 100% of the rehab costs. For habitual dislocation without a clear accident event, billing runs through basic health insurance (with a doctor’s prescription).

How is this different from conventional physiotherapy?

Medical training therapy (MTT) provides quantitative load management. For MPFL rehab this means isokinetic quadriceps strength testing compared side to side, patellar tracking control under load, single-leg jump tests on force plates and sport-specific change-of-direction drills in the Sport Performance Center.

Related: ACL Rehab · Meniscus Rehab.

Booking: book online (German interface) or call us in English — Kloten 044 803 91 19, Zurich West 044 814 23 20.