Knee arthroscopy is a commonly performed surgical procedure for the diagnosis and treatment of various knee conditions. After surgery, most individuals are instructed to perform post-operative exercises to restore normal function of the knee. Therapeutic exercises vary based on the type of arthroscopic procedure you have undergone, and it is important to follow exercises prescribed for your knee condition.
Heel Slides
It is imperative to maintain motion at the knee joint after having arthroscopic surgery. After initial recovery, heel slides may be prescribed to maintain joint range of motion and prevent muscle tightness. This exercise is performed while lying on your back and sliding your heel back toward your bottom. This position is held for approximately 10 seconds, and then the knee is returned to the starting position.
Quadriceps Contractions
After arthroscopy, it is imperative to strengthen the quadriceps muscle group to help restore normal function of the knee. Quadriceps sets are commonly prescribed early in the rehabilitation process to help activate this muscle group while limiting the amount of strain placed on the knee. This exercise is performed while lying on your back with the knee fully extended. From this position, the quadriceps muscle is tightened and held for approximately five seconds. After five seconds, the muscle is relaxed and the exercise is repeated.
Gluteal Contractions
Another important muscle group to strengthen after arthroscopic knee surgery is the gluteals. Weakness in this muscle group can effect functions at the knee and contribute to further knee problems. Gluteal contractions are prescribed early during the rehabilitation process to help activate this muscle group and prepare for more advanced exercises. This exercise is performed while lying on your back with the knees bent. From this position, squeeze the buttocks and hold tightly for approximately five seconds. After five seconds, the muscle is relaxed and the exercise is repeated.
Straight Leg Raises
Straight leg raises are another exercise prescribed during early rehabilitation to strengthen the quadriceps muscle group. This exercise is performed while lying on the back with the knee fully extended. The uninvolved leg can bend to allow for more comfort of the back. While in this position, the leg is lifted in 6-inch increments and held for approximately five seconds. After five seconds, the leg is returned to the resting position and the exercise is repeated. This exercise can be advanced by progressively adding ankle weights.
Member Comments