Once you have knee surgery, it is important to do the work during rehab so you can regain full strength and full range of motion in your knee. After surgery, you will have to stay off your feet for a period of four to six weeks. However, once you go through that initial rest period after surgery, you need to do rehab exercises that will help you get a full recovery.
Aquatherapy -- Walking
Step 1
Stand waist-deep in a pool. Hold on to a kick board for balance if you need it.
Step 2
Walk from one side of the pool to the other. Return to the other side of the pool.
Step 3
Walk with high knees from one end of the pool to the other. The resistance provided by the water and the high knee action will help you regain range of motion.
Quad Sets
Step 1
Sit with your legs out in front of you. Place your hands by your hips.
Step 2
Keep your feet flexed, pointing your toes toward your shins.
Step 3
Contract your quadriceps muscles for 10 seconds. Relax the quad for 10 seconds. Do 10 reps for seconds each.
Bent Knee Leg Raises
Step 1
Lie down on the floor. Bend your knees so your feet are flat on the floor.
Step 2
Tense your quadriceps muscles in the front of your right thigh.
Step 3
While contracting your right quad, lift your leg at a 45-degree angle. Hold the lift for five seconds.
Step 4
Relax the quad and return to the starting position. Do 10 reps of this exercise with both legs.
