Knee Arthroscopy Exercise Guide

Arthroscopic knee surgery is the most commonly performed orthopedic procedure in the United States, according to "Arthritis Today." Although it doesn't involve a long hospital stay, there may be post-operative pain, swelling and a restriction of normal physical activity. One way to promote a quicker recovery and restore your knee to full flexibility and strength is through exercises.

Identification

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally-invasive surgery in which two or three small incisions are made in your knee and a narrow tube inserted. The surgeon threads a tiny camera through the tube that helps her diagnose and repair problems. The most common reasons for the procedure are a torn meniscus or ligament, joint damage, kneecap misalignment, broken cartilage, cysts and bone fractures. After the surgery, your doctor will give you a specific exercise program to follow.

Time Frame

Aerobic activity promotes healthy circulation and endorphins that can ease pain. Exercises for range of motion and strength are also important, helping to maintain flexibility, reduce scar tissue and restore weakened muscles and ligaments. Minimize standing, walking and other activity for the first week following surgery. Start with flexibility exercises and easy stationary bicycling within a week of surgery and walking within two weeks, but avoid running until after six to eight weeks, due to the higher impact and stress on your knee. Many patients can return to a more active and even a normal lifestyle within one to two months.

Recommendations

Although your physician or physical therapist will instruct you on the appropriate flexibility exercises for your situation, two common exercises are quad sets and straight-leg raises. With quad sets, lie on your back on a firm surface with both knees straight, legs flat and arms by your side. Tighten your upper thigh muscles, push the back of the affected knee down and raise only the heel, holding for five seconds. For straight-leg raises, while lying or sitting, bend your uninvolved leg and straighten the affected knee, then lift the entire leg one to two feet off the floor and hold in the air for six seconds. Work up to 20 to 30 minutes of exercises two or three times a day.

Considerations

Wear a knee immobilizer or locked knee brace while walking and use crutches until otherwise instructed by your physical therapist. You may experience temporary setbacks as you increase exercise intensity, such as pain or swelling. If this occurs, decrease the intensity or stop the activity until the problems subside. If the pain and swelling are accompanied by significant redness at the surgical site, pus coming from the incisions, leg numbness, chills or a high-grade fever, contact your doctor immediately.