Total knee replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, may be required in cases of severe joint damage or disabling pain. Some of the more common issues that may lead to the need for knee replacement are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or age-related wear-and-tear of the joint. Greg Ott, PT, ATC, emphasizes the importance of range-of-motion exercises, activity to increase mobility and specific strengthening exercises to ensure a healthy recovery and a quick return to normal activity after undergoing knee replacement surgery. Follow the advice of your physical therapist on when and how often to implement these exercises.
Mobility and Activity
Step 1
Focus on increasing your mobility. Start by walking around in your hospital room and graduate to walking the halls. When you are released from the hospital, take slow walks around your neighborhood. Gradually add in a few stairs and light household chores.
Step 2
Take a swim. Swimming not only increases your mobility, but the action is non-impact and can help strengthen your muscles as well as your heart and lungs. Walk in the water to incorporate resistance training or take an appropriate water exercise class.
Step 3
Exercise on a recumbent bike. If you do not have a swimming pool available to you, the recumbent bike is a good option. Try mixing it up during the week. Walk one day, swim the next and use the recumbent bike on the third day, then repeat the cycle.
Range-of-Motion and Strengthening Exercises
Step 1
Perform knee extension exercises. Sit in a chair with your back against the chair back, with both feet placed on the floor directly beneath your knees. Lift the foot of the affected knee slightly off the ground and slowly extend the knee straight out in front of you. Bend the knee to the starting 90-degree position. Work on trying to get your leg straight, so your foot is level with your knee and thigh. Perform this exercise several times a day.
Step 2
Lie on your back with your hips level, legs placed side-by-side. Slowly raise your leg straight up without allowing your knee to bend. It may help to flex your foot and press out with your heel. Work on raising your leg to hip height so that it forms a 90-degree angle to your torso.
Step 3
Stand up straight with your legs placed a little wider than hip width apart. Make sure your knees are facing straight ahead and are directly lined up beneath your hips. Slowly bend both knees to perform a mini squat. Slowly return to standing and be careful not to lock your knees upon completion of the movement.
Tips and Warnings
- MayoClinic.com recommends that prior to knee replacement surgery, make your home a safe environment for navigating while on crutches. Make sure all the carpeting is secure and has no loose threads. If you have a low toilet seat, arrange for a toilet-seat riser. Check banisters on stairways for stability. Arrange for assistance if you live alone.
- It is important to closely follow the instructions of your surgeon and physical therapist. Although rare, complications can follow knee replacement surgery. Report any signs of infection, such as fever, chills and discoloration, to your doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Swimming pool
- Recumbent bike
