Stool scoots are one of many exercises to strengthen the knee following surgery or a debilitating injury. Orthopedic doctors and physical therapists agree that stool scoots should be integrated into the rehabilitation routine during the patient's third stage. This stage incorporates jogging, plyometrics and agility training, along with strengthening exercises to help develop the leg muscles supporting the knee.
Performing Stool Scoots
Sit on a stool with wheels and place your feet flat on the floor. Adjust the height of the stool so that you can easily reach the floor while keeping your knees bent at a 90-degree angle. Extend your legs slightly so that only your heels touch the floor. Flex your feet to point your toes in the air. "Step" forward using your heel, digging it into the floor and pulling back toward your body to propel yourself forward on the stool. Repeat with the other foot and continue this pattern for the distance or duration recommended by your doctor or physical therapist.
Benefits
Stool scoots challenge your leg muscles, especially the hamstrings, and the stability of your knee ligaments. Depending on the type of knee injury or surgery you had, your doctor or physical therapist may suggest that you perform reverse-stool scoots. Reverse scoots require you to press your heel into the ground and push forward using your quadriceps to propel yourself backward. Lowering the stool closer to the ground when you perform scoots can help you increase your range of motion for the flexion, or bending, of your knee.
Considerations
Adjust the height of the seat so you are not forcing extreme flexion of the knee to the point of pain. Perform the stool scoots on a hard surface or short carpet. Plush carpet or one with thick padding may cause the wheels trouble while rolling, and could lead to knee strain.
Warnings
Do not perform stool scoots until stage three or later in your rehabilitation as they could cause damage to the surgical site if performed too early. If you have any sharp pain or find stool scoots make your symptoms worse, notify your doctor or physical therapist and stop performing the scoots until they suggest a new exercise or tell you to continue. Always perform stool scoots directly forward or backward, not laterally, unless lateral movement is prescribed. Consult with your doctor before starting any type of rehabilitation-exercise program.
