Exercising after a knee surgery of any kind is a vital part of your recovery process. The main focus is on strengthening the muscles around your knee so it is supported and can heal properly. Although partial knee surgery is not as dramatic as full-knee replacement surgery, the recovery protocol is generally the same.
Goal
According to the Stone Clinic website, the goal of partial knee recovery exercises is to achieve full extension of the operated-on knee so that it is equal to the opposite knee. The initial exercises work the vastus medialis, which is a muscle in the front, inner part of the thigh. Do not extend or flex the knee beyond 90 degrees in the first two weeks after your operation. The American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends performing exercises as soon as possible, beginning in the post-operative recovery room, to reduce pain and speed recovery.
Straight Leg Raise
This exercise strengthens the quadriceps, which includes the vastus medialis. Begin by lying flat on your back on a table, bed or the floor. Tense your thigh muscle while keeping your recovering knee fully straightened. Lift your leg several inches, hold it in place for at least five to 10 seconds, then slowly lower it. Repeat this exercise until your thigh feels tired. You also can do the exercise when sitting.
Ankle Lifts
This exercise can help with swelling that can occur in the lower leg, and can be done soon after surgery. Begin by lying flat on your back on a bed or the floor. Move the tips of the toes toward you and then away from you. Repeat this motion for up to three minutes, or until you get fatigued. Be sure and flex the muscles of the calf and shin for maximum effect. Repeat this exercise until all the swelling goes away. It is most effective if performed several times a day.
Knee Bends
These sets of exercises can increase your range of motion. Avoid bending your knee beyond 90 degrees in the beginning. There are several variations of this movement, and you can start the first one from your recovery bed. Lying on your back, with your feet straight, bend your knee and slide your foot towards the buttocks; keep the foot flat on the bed. Bend the knee as far as you can without pain. Once your reach your threshold, hold your knee in that position for at least five seconds. Slowly lower your knee back to the bed. Keep repeating this until the knee is fatigued.
To do a sitting variation of this exercise, begin with the foot on the ground, slowly bend the knee as far as you can and hold it there for several seconds. Once your knee feels tired, lower you leg back to the floor.
Considerations
Once your knee is improved, move on to doing more advanced exercises, including walking without the assistance of crutches or a cane. It is best not to push yourself too hard, but be consistent in your effort. To ensure a speedy recovery, make sure to follow the advice of your physician and recovery specialist.
Member Comments