If you are scheduled for a total knee replacement, you are likely anxiously awaiting the day when you can resume your normal activities pain free. To prepare you for your surgery, your doctor may recommend a series of exercises to help keep your leg strong prior to your surgery. Building strength beforehand can help reduce the risk of post-operative complications and make for a smoother recovery.
Heel Slides
Heel slides help to maintain your knees' full range of motion prior to the replacement. Lie down or sit on your bed or couch. Extend your unaffected leg out in front of your with your heel touching the bed or couch and your toes facing the ceiling. Ben you knee of your affected leg, and place the foot on your bed or couch. Slowly slide your heel until it is close to your buttocks as you comfortably can. Hold this position for a count of five seconds. Return to your starting position, and repeat this exercise 10 times.
Seated Hamstring Stretch
A seated hamstring stretch can help to strengthen your thigh muscles prior to surgery. Sit straight up in a chair with your knee bent and your foot flat on the floor. Extend your affected leg in front of your so that your toes are pointing toward the ceiling. Lean forward at your hips so you are reaching for your toes. Grasp your toes or ankle using your hand, and pull in the direction of your body. Avoid bending your knee. You will feel a stretch in the back of your leg. Hold this stretch for five seconds. Relax, and repeat this exercise 10 times.
Knee Extensions
Knee extensions can help keep your knee flexible. Sit straight up in a chair with your legs bent at the knee and your feet flat on the ground. Slowly raise your affected leg off the floor. Try to straighten your knee out as much as your can. Hold this position for five seconds. Slowly lower your leg back to the starting position, and repeat. Complete one set of 10 repetitions.
Cardiovascular Exercises
Cardiovascular exercises can help improve your endurance and overall health prior to your knee replacement. It also can help strengthen your muscles and increase flexibility in your joints. Participate in cardiovascular exercise, such as walking, swimming or riding an indoor bicycle three times a week for 30 minutes, if your doctor allows.
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