Post-operative knee stiffness following a meniscal repair or removal is a common patient experience. This sensation of restricted movement and discomfort arises from a combination of physiological responses to the surgical intervention. It is a noticeable constraint on the knee’s usual range of motion.
The occurrence of this tightness is frequently attributed to the body’s natural healing mechanisms. These include inflammation, scar tissue formation around the surgical site, and muscle guarding a protective response where muscles surrounding the knee contract to limit movement and minimize pain. Furthermore, inactivity following surgery can lead to muscle atrophy and decreased joint lubrication, contributing to the feeling of stiffness.
