How to Modify Training Post Meniscus Surgery

Mary Russo

Today marks 3 weeks post surgery. I am in Wk 6 IM Full training plan. How should I be modifying my training until I can run again? I have been on elliptical and pool running but hope to try a walk/run on Boardwalk tomorrow before my bike

Keith Shireman

Just out of curiosity, how much meniscus was removed? Any other damage to the knee that was fixed? I'm in sports medicine so I saw you post and wanted to help if I can. 

Mary Russo

I had an internal tear, a torn medial and torn lateral meniscus and more arthritis than they expected. Post op I had a synvisc injection to help with the arthritis. Report says medial and lateral meniscectomies, arthroplastic multicompartmental synovectomy. I can send report by email if you want.

Mary Russo

thanks for your help

Patrick Marsh

@Mary Russo - I had meniscus surgery on 10/31/17.  I did yoga every day for the two weeks following surgery; On the 15th day, I was allowed back in the pool.  I then started swimming 4-5 days a week, and also began riding lightly on the bike.  Following week-4, I started riding with increasing intensity.  At week-8, I did an FTP test, started cycling with intensity and also began a run durability plan.  At week-12, I started February OS - i.e., cycling and running at full-intensity.  

I am feeling good at this point.  My cycling is almost back to normal.  Running is going well.  After ten weeks of OS, my VDOT is back to 40, which is where I did IMLP a few months before my surgery, but below the 42 that I reached at the end of the 2016/17 Outseason plan.  My cumulative fitness, using the fitness/freshness feature on Strava (like CTL on TP) showed a huge drop while I was waiting for surgery.  However, it has climbed steeply since I started cycling with intensity after week-8.

Hope this experience is helpful.  Best of luck!  My post-surgery experience has been surprisingly positive.  I hope yours is as well.