VALDCAST Hannah Marchant: Managing Complex Knees with Data-Informed Rehab
Dec 11, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Hannah Marchant, a physical therapist at New York City Football Club, shares her expertise in data-informed rehabilitation. A former collegiate soccer player and Cleveland Clinic alum, Hannah navigates the complexities of medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction. She delves into baseline testing, load management, and the importance of isometric testing. Hannah also discusses managing setbacks and interpreting asymmetries in athlete recovery, emphasizing the value of consistent testing and athlete engagement in informed decision-making.
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Complex Knee Case Background
- Hannah treated a Division I-bound football athlete who had prior Oats surgery, two traumatic patellar dislocations, MPFL reconstruction, and cartilage drilling with bone grafting.
- The case centered on balancing patellar lesion protection with progression through return-to-sport rehabilitation.
Favor Isometrics Early
- Start with isometric work and avoid ballistic isokinetic tests early after MPFL reconstruction when patellar cartilage is a concern.
- Progress into deeper flexion and dynamic testing gradually while monitoring patellar pain and surgeon guidance.
Value Baseline Data For Context
- Use multiple strength and performance tests (isos, isokinetics, NordBord, force plate) to track capacity across rehab stages.
- Baseline and pre-surgery data strengthen interpretation and contextualize asymmetries.