Knee arthroscopy is a surgical process in which a small incision is made and a camera is inserted into the knee to check out specifics that cannot be ascertained otherwise. If the surgeon finds something amiss, he can usually repair the problem during the same procedure. If you opt for local rather than general anesthesia for the procedure, you can view the procedure with the use of a video monitor. Your doctor will recommend exercises to aid in your recovery.
Initial Post-surgery Exercises
Patellar arthroscopic procedures are used to repair and treat meniscal injuries, cruciate ligament injuries and also for microfractures of the cartilage. Exercises recommended to help you recover from these conditions post surgery include extending you leg while sitting on a chair that allows your feet to just about touch the ground, raising your leg as you lie on your stomach and doing exercises in the pool. Recommended aquatic exercises include walking fast in chest-deep water, performing flutter kicks while holding on to the side of a pool and raising your leg at a 90-degree angle.
Three Stages of Post-Surgery Exercise
Your post-surgery exercise routine will follow three stages. The first stage of exercise will include gentle movement of the joint. The second includes mobility exercises and the third involves advanced exercises aimed at completely rehabilitating your knee. In the early recovery period your orthopedic surgeon may suggest about 20 minutes of exercise three times a week and 30 minutes of walking on the remaining days. This is essential to gradually ease in to an exercise program and to avoid any injuries after the surgery.
Sample Exercises
An initial exercise might include tightening your quadriceps while attempting to straighten your knee. Hold the position for 5 to 10 seconds and repeat at least 10 times. But, if your knees starts to feel fatigued, discontinue the exercise for the day. You can also perform straight leg raises by lying on your back, tightening your thigh muscles and lifting your legs in a straight manner. As you regain strength, you can add ankle weights to your leg raising exercises. The ankle pump requires you to move your ankle back and forth while lying down. This exercise works on the calf muscles and the shin area too. Knee bends while lying on the bed or while sitting down can also be done within a few days of your surgery.
Considerations
Don't attempt any exercises without the approval of your doctor and seek the guidance of a trained physiotherapist for all advanced exercise. Other aspects of total knee recovery include using supportive braces that can help provide the required support till the time the knee recovers completely. These braces also help keep your knee in proper alignment. Ask your doctor how to properly tape your knee as this may reduce pain and help you complete prescribed exercises. exercises that you are supposed to. A cold pack may reduce swelling, and knee-friendly exercises such as swimming can help you safely recover your strength and mobility.
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