Knee arthritis occurs when the cartilage in the knee wears down, causing the bones to rub against each other. Symptoms of knee arthritis include swelling, pain and an inability to fully extend or bend the knee. Doing exercises while in a wheelchair may help improve leg and knee range of motion, strengthen muscles, maintain a healthy weight and reduce pain. Talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
Leg Extensions
This exercise strengthens the quadriceps, located above your knees, and may help reduce pain while building muscular support for your knees. Sit up straight and tighten your abdominal muscles. Lift your right foot off of the wheelchair and place it on the ground. Lift your right foot upward, stopping before your leg is completely straight. Lower your foot toward the ground and complete 10 repetitions. Do the same with your left foot. Wear ankle weights to increase the intensity of this exercise.
Isometric Quadriceps Contractions
Isometric quadriceps contractions strengthen the muscles above the knees. Sit near the edge of your wheelchair and straighten your back. Extend your right leg in front of you and place your right heel on the ground. Tighten the muscle on top of your knee by pushing your right knee toward the ground. You will not see any change in muscular length during this exercise. Hold for 5 seconds, release and complete 30 times. Do the same with your left leg. Isometric exercise may cause an increase in blood pressure; avoid this exercise if you have high blood pressure.
Hamstring Stretch
The Arthritis Foundation recommends stretching to increase joint range-of-motion and reduce muscular stiffness. The hamstrings, located on the back of the thighs, cross the back of your knees and may tighten because of knee arthritis. Sit up straight, straighten your legs and place your heels on the floor in front of you. Bend forward and reach your fingers toward your toes. Maintain a straight back as you lower and stop when you feel a stretch in the back of your thighs. Hold for 45 seconds and release.
Considerations
Applying a heating pad or a hot towel to your knee before exercise will help loosen up stiff muscles and joints. Move slowly through the exercises and stop if you feel any sharp pains or see any redness or inflammation. Applying ice after a workout may prevent or reduce swelling and inflammation. Wrap the ice in a towel before placing it on your skin to prevent a burn.
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