Exercises For Hip & Knee Replacement

Exercise is an important part of recovery. If you have had hip or knee replacement surgery, exercise will help restore your full range of motion, increase circulation and build muscle to support the joints. Exercises in the postoperative phase will vary from early to advanced exercises. Always consult with your doctor or physical therapist before starting any exercise routine.

Ankle Pumps

Ankle pumps can be done immediately after hip or knee replacement surgery, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Do this exercise lying down. Pump your foot up and down by contracting your calf and shin muscles. Do this continually for two to three minutes, twice each hour while in the recovery room and once you are at home. Ankle pumps increase circulation and help to reduce swelling.

Bed-Supported Knee Bends

Bed-supported knee bends are a good exercise for both knee and hip replacement patients. Do these while lying down on a bed. Keep both legs straight. Slide one foot up towards your hips, bending your knee slowly. Bend your knee as much as is comfortable and hold this position for five to 10 seconds. Straighten your leg and repeat with the other leg. Repeat these five times or until your legs are fatigued or until you can bend your knee completely.

Walking

Walking is one of the best exercises for both hip and knee replacement patients. You will not be able to walk immediately after surgery, but when your surgeon or physical therapist gives the OK, you will be able to walk on crutches at first, being careful not to put too much weight on your injured leg or hip. The next stage is using a walker and when you can stand for more than 10 minutes, your leg or hip will be strong enough to carry your weight without your using walking aids.

Pilates

Pilates exercises are recommended for hip and knee replacement patients as a comprehensive approach for a complete body workout that can be individualized to meet postoperative needs, according a study headed by Brett Levine, M.S., M.D., reported in an article published in 2007 in the "Bulletin of the New York University Hospital for Joint Diseases."

A postoperative exercise for patients in the two-weeks to three-months range is done lying on a thick Pilates mat. Lift your legs to a 45-degree angle and hold this position. Next, lift your head and rotate your body towards your legs while keeping your arms straight. You arms should be lifted off of and parallel to the floor. Try to move your arms as far past your hips as possible. This exercise warms the core muscles.

Single leg circles is another exercise that is done lying on your back. Keep your arms at your sides and lift one leg perpendicular to the floor. Keeping your leg straight, roll your leg to the outside in a circular motion, then roll your leg around in a wide circle bringing the leg down in front and then over to the other side and back to straight. This exercise works hip range of motion and strengthens the flexor and extensor muscles of the hip, avoiding active abduction or adduction.