Exercise is important for recovery after knee replacement . The right movement and rehab can help to improve strength, flexibility, balance and confidence. But returning to activity should be gradual. Your exercises should be appropriate for your recovery, overall health, surgical technique and the recommendation of your orthopedic surgeon or physical therapist.
How Soon Can I Exercise After Knee Replacement Surgery?
Most patients start gentle exercises soon after the operation, often with the help of a physical therapist. Early movement may involve simple exercises and short walks. As your knee gets stronger, your rehab plan will change. Don’t push through major pain or swelling just to get ahead
Knee Replacement Recovery: Exercise Safety
Your physical therapist may suggest exercises such as:
Walking: Begin with short distances, and increase activity as advised.
Ankle pumps: Push your feet up and down to help encourage early leg movement.
Heel slides: Slowly slide your heel toward your body. This will help improve your knee flexibility.
Straight leg raises: These may help to strengthen the muscles around the knee when appropriate.
Knee bends: Simple bending exercises can help increase range of motion over time.
Exercises For Strength And Flexibility
Strengthening exercises prescribed by your doctor can help you rebuild muscles that support your knee as you get better. Your therapist may recommend exercises according to your ability and healing. Light stretching and controlled movements can also help with flexibility. Consistency trumps intensity, especially in the beginning of the recovery process.
Knee Replacement Exercises With Low Impact
When your healthcare team thinks it is time, low-impact activities can be added to your routine. Stationary cycling, walking, swimming or other activities that are easy on the joints can give you movement with little impact. Cycling may require some adjustments to the seat and resistance at first to accommodate your comfort and rehabilitation plan.
Exercises Or Activities To Avoid
Not every knee replacement patient is able to do high impact activities. Running, jumping and some contact sports can put additional stress on the artificial joint and should only be attempted with specific approval from your orthopedic team. You may also need to avoid sudden twisting, impact or heavily loaded activities, or activities with a high risk of falling.
Safe Exercise After Knee Replacement Surgery: Tips
Follow your rehab plan and build activity up in small increments, rather than doing too much too soon. Look for increasing pain, swelling, redness or other unusual symptoms and contact your health care team if these symptoms occur. Before beginning a new exercise or sport, talk with your surgeon or physical therapist. Opting for the best Orthopedic team for knee replacement surgery in indore can also help patients to get proper guidance for recovery and long term activity.
FAQs
Exercise after knee replacement?
Often walking and prescribed physical therapy exercises can be helpful. The best exercises are those that are individualized to your recovery and should be those recommended by your health-care team.
Will I be able to walk normally after my knee replacement?
Most patients recover gradually to normal walking; however, recovery is variable. As you get better, you should be able to walk farther and need less help.
Can I go cycling after knee replacement?
Once cleared to do so by their surgeon or therapist, many patients can participate in low-impact activities such as stationary cycling.
Can you squat after knee replacement?
Some patients may be able to do modified strengthening exercises, but deep or heavy squats may not be appropriate. Check with your physical therapist before adding squats.
What exercises should I not do after knee replacement?
Not everyone can run and jump or take part in high-impact sports or activities that involve a lot of twisting. Follow your surgeon’s specific instructions.