A person suffering from severe pain in both knees may receive bilateral knee replacements, advises the Mayo Clinic. Having both knees replaced at the same time may shorten recovery time compared with having one knee replaced at a time. A successful knee replacement requires postsurgical knee exercises to rebuild the range of motion of the knee and to build strength in the muscles around the knee, according to University of California San Diego Medical Center. However, it is important to follow the instructions given to you by your physical therapists and doctors when performing bilateral knee replacement exercises.
Quad Sets
In order to walk after bilateral knee replacement, you need strong quadriceps (muscles on the front of the thigh), advises Wockhardt Center for Joint Replacements. Be sure to perform this exercise with one leg at a time. To perform the exercise, tighten the muscles on the top of your thigh, and push the back of the knee down into the bed. This should straighten your leg. Hold this position for five seconds and then relax for five seconds. Repeat 10 times on each leg. You should try to do several sets of these each hour, if possible.
Knee Extensions
Knee extensions also strengthen the quadriceps. Start by performing these from a lying position. Place a pillow or rolled blanket under one of your new knees, bending your knee to a 30- to 40-degree angle. Tighten your quadriceps to straighten your knee. Hold for five seconds and slowly lower your foot back to the bed. Repeat until your thigh gets tired. Aim for 10 to 20 repetitions, advises Wockhardt Center for Joint Replacements. Repeat on the other knee.
Knee Bends
While your physical therapist will help you find the best way to increase the flexion of your knee, knee bends help. Each day you should be able to bend the knee slightly farther. To perform a knee bend, sit on the side of your bed or in a chair. Bend you knee as far as you comfortably can, until your left foot rests on the floor. Placing light pressure on your foot, and slide forward on your bed or chair. This should increase the bend in your knee. Stop if you feel pain. The movement should be uncomfortable, but not painful. Hold the bend position for five to 10 seconds, advises the American Academy Of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Straighten the leg fully. Repeat with your right leg. Continue alternating legs until you can fully bend your knee or your legs get fatigued.
Other Exercises
Within two to three days after surgery, your physical therapist will help you learn how to walk using a walker or crutches. The American Academy Of Orthopaedic Surgeons advises that full recovery of your knees may take months. However, you will slowly be able to incorporate more and more normal activities. Using a stationary bike or pool exercises helps you regain the strength in your leg muscles, advises the University of California San Diego Medical Center.
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