The knee is one of the most complex in the body. Motions that occur at the foot, ankle and lower leg transmit forces through the knee to the thigh, hip, pelvis and spine. If abnormal forces occur in this chain, they are often absorbed by the knee, making it more susceptible to injury. Injuries of the knee include soft tissue damage to ligaments as well as damage to the cartilage and bone. Extreme damage to knee cartilage that affects mobility is often treated by knee arthroplasty.
Definition
Knee arthroplasty is also known as knee replacement. It's a surgery to relieve pain and allow increased activity for individuals with severe and painful damage to bone and cartilage. During knee arthroplasty, the surgeon removes damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint and replaces them with either plastic or metal materials. Following knee arthroplasty, you can no longer participate in high-impact activities such as jogging or high-impact sports, but activities of daily living may be easier and less painful to perform.
Your surgeon may advise you to perform exercises as soon as possible following your surgery. Through uncomfortable at first, these exercises help with speedy recovery and diminish pain.
Quadriceps Sets
Quadriceps sets strengthen the quadriceps muscle that surrounds the knee joint. Perform this exercise using the leg that was operated on. With the leg straight, tighten your thigh muscle and attempt to straighten the knee. Hold the tightened muscle for five to 10 seconds, then release. Repeat 10 times during a two-minute period until the thigh feels fatigued.
Ankle Pumps
Ankle pumps involve moving your foot up and down rhythmically by contracting the shin and calf muscles. Perform this periodically for two to three minutes, two or three times an hour, while in the recovery room. Perform this exercise until you're fully recovered and the swelling in your lower leg has subsided.
Straight Leg Raises
Straight leg raises strengthen the hip flexor muscles. This exercise is similar to quadriceps sets because the thigh muscle is contracted with the knee fully extended on the bed. Lift the affected leg straight up and several inches off the bed. Hold the lifted position for five to 10 seconds, then slowly lower the leg to starting position. Repeat the leg lifts until your thigh gets fatigued.
Supported Knee Bends
Perform supported knee bends while sitting in a chair or on the side of the bed. Place your foot behind the heel of the operated knee for support. Bend your knee slowly and as much as possible, then hold this bent knee position for five to 10 seconds. Repeat until the leg gets fatigued.
References
- "Arnheim's Principles of Athletic Training"; William Prentice; 2008
- MedlinePlus: Knee Replacement
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