A hyperextended knee is a condition that occurs when a large amount of pressure forces your knee to bend backwards. This injury can occur as a result of an accident such as a car crash, or it can be the result of an impact when playing sports. Knee hyperextension can damage any part of your knee, from the muscles that attach to the joint, to the tendons, ligaments, cartilage and other structures that help to stabilize you knee. If you suffer this injury, chances are that you will be instructed to immobilize your knee for an extended period, followed by exercises to help restore the strength and stability to your joint. Certain exercises are commonly prescribed following a knee hyperextension.
Isometric Quadriceps Contraction
This exercise is likely to be one of the first exercises prescribed to you following a period of immobilization or after your surgery. Lie down on your back on a bed with both legs extended and your toes pointing toward the ceiling. Tighten the muscles along the front of your thigh by straightening your knee as far as you can. Pull your toes back as if you were trying to touch your toes to the front of your shin. Hold this position for about five seconds and then relax. Repeat as directed by your doctor.
Knee Extension
Sit or lie down with your injured knee supported on a rolled-up towel and your heel resting on the bed or stool. Slowly straighten your leg and lift your heel up and off the bed or stool. Hold this position for a couple of seconds and then return to the starting position using a slow and controlled motion. Be sure that you check with your doctor if this exercise causes serious or severe pain.
Straight Leg Raises
Sit or lie down with your lower leg supported on a bed or stool. Keep your knee straight and lift your leg off the support to raise it about six inches. Hold this position for a few seconds and then lower your leg, using a slow and controlled motion. Repeat as directed by your doctor. Be sure that when you're performing this exercise, you keep your knee completely straight.
Hip Abduction
Lie down on your side with your injured leg on top and your upper body weight supported on the elbow of your uninjured side. Lift your injured leg up and away from the center line of your body while keeping your foot parallel to the ground. Be sure that your knee remains straight throughout this motion. Continue lifting until your leg is at about a 30 degree angle from your body. Hold this position for a few seconds and then return to the starting position using a slow and controlled motion. Repeat as directed by your doctor.
