Knee Injury Fitness Testing

Common knee surgeries requiring fitness assessment:

• ACL Reconstruction: 9-12 month return-to-sport timeline
• Meniscus Repair: Graduated return to impact activities
• Meniscectomy: Earlier return with proper guidance
• Patellar Stabilization: Quad strength and cardio balance
• Cartilage Procedures: Long-term reconditioning support

ACL recovery is a marathon. VO₂ max testing supports the process:

• Months 6-9: Non-weight-bearing bike testing for cardiovascular baseline
• Months 9-12: Treadmill testing when cleared for running
• Post-Return: Ongoing fitness tracking
• Training zones for safe reconditioning
• Objective data for return-to-play decisions

Start conservative, progress as knee heals:

Phase 1 (Early): Wahoo KICKR Bike-non-weight-bearing cardiovascular assessment

Phase 2 (Mid): Progress to treadmill when cleared for jogging/running

Phase 3 (Late): Sport-specific testing as return-to-play approaches

Meniscus procedures vary in recovery time:

• Meniscectomy (removal): Quicker return, test at 6-12 weeks
• Meniscus Repair: Longer protection phase, test at 4-6 months
• VO₂ max testing guides intensity during comeback
• Prevents overloading healing tissue

Knee injuries cause rapid cardiovascular deconditioning:

• Immobilization period reduces VO₂ max significantly
• Testing establishes post-injury baseline
• Sets realistic reconditioning goals
• Tracks fitness restoration progress

For runners recovering from knee injury:

• Cardiovascular fitness assessment
• Running gait symmetry (outside scope, but important)
• Strength testing (PT responsibility)
• Functional movement screening (PT responsibility)
• VO₂ max provides cardio piece of the puzzle

VO₂ Max Test: $250

Complete cardiovascular assessment with knee-safe training zones. Equipment selected based on recovery phase.

Medical/PT clearance required.

Fit Evaluations
311 Soquel Ave
Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Behind Hindquarter restaurant (second entrance off Dakota St.)

Contact:
Phone: 831-400-9227
Email: info@fitevals.com

Professional fitness testing for ACL, meniscus, and knee injury recovery.