u/DaBrownMamba

I'm coming off surgery for left FAI and labrum repair. Prior to surgery, I was pretty active with cycling and weightlifting, so my body is used to physical activity and recovery.

I'm feeling frustrated that my PT is moving so slowly at 4 weeks in. We've so far focused on isometrics of the glutes and quads. And a little bit of internal rotation. I'm able to do heel slides all the way up and down with minimal pain. I also have been able to move on the stationary bike for 10 minutes at a time. I am also walking crutch free since week 2.

I've been told we are moving on to bridges next week. Just wondering if this pace of movement is normal and if progression will begin to ramp up or if my PT is just being more conservative?

I suffered this injury several years ago while running uphill. I’ve since stopped running altogether. I took up cycling which has been easier on my knees but have flare ups occasionally. It’s hard to pinpoint but it’s somewhere in the 5 o’clock position just outside the kneecap.

The pain becomes noticeable when I’m seated and try to extend my leg straight and return to 90 degrees.

I also tend to have a “cold start” problem where my left knee is uncomfortably stiff when I get out of bed in the mornings.

Anyways, it’s been one diagnosis after another without a clear answer having been provided to me. At first it was runner’s knee, then it band syndrome, fat pad syndrome, and finally patellofemoral pain syndrome.

I’ve had x-rays done that indicate no bone or structural damage. The following is the results of my recent MRI.

IMPRESSION:

1. Grade 1 versus low-grade chronic sprain of the ACL fibers.
2. Thin curvilinear focus of T2 hyperintense signal alteration in the fibular collateral ligament extending into the conjoined tendon, findings that may represent sequela of chronic low grade 2 sprain or prominent vascularity.
3. Mild degenerative tearing of the inner margin of the lateral wrist as posterior horn adjacent to the posterior root ligament attachment. Minimal meniscal extrusion.
4. Moderate medial quadriceps tendinosis.
5. Trace joint effusion with a thin medial patellar plica.

I have only done PT for the past several years to treat this issue to varying degrees of success. Have not done cortisone or PRP injections which have also been offered to me.

If anyone has similar conditions, it would be great to know what you’ve done so far and other recommendations as well.