Knee problems can occur from injuries and overuse. The severity of your knee problem determines just how long you must commit to a rehabilitation program. Some knee problems call for intensive rehabilitation, while other cases are resolved relatively quickly. Strengthening your knee requires a multipronged approach that begins with placing weight back on the knee and regaining your ability to walk again. Then, range-of-motion exercises can be incorporated into the rehabilitation program, followed by strength and cardiovascular exercises. Speak to your doctor before beginning any type of rehabilitation program.
Step 1
Use crutches the first several weeks once you are cleared to put weight back on the knee. The use of crutches depends on the severity of your knee problem. Certain cases may not require crutches. If you require crutches, keep your leg straight at a zero-degree angle and fasten a brace to your leg to keep it locked into this position.
Step 2
Limit the amount of weight you place on the affected leg to approximately one-fourth of your body weight. Use two crutches to help control how much weight you place on the leg.
Step 3
Apply more and more weight onto your leg over 12 weeks. Keep the leg brace on until you are confident that your quadriceps are strong enough again to maintain a straight leg when walking on crutches.
Step 4
Perform exercises that begin to reestablish your full range of motion. Train daily using basic movements, such as leg extensions from a seated or lying position. Extend the leg as far as it is comfortable.
Step 5
Incorporate advanced progressive resistance exercises once your full range of motion is regained. Get into a habit of performing normal functional activities again.
Step 6
Develop strength in your leg through plyometric exercises and increase the intensity of your strength training and any sport-specific exercises. Remove any protective gear you may wear while exercising to help train your leg and knee back to full strength.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult your doctor about which type of rehabilitation approach best suits your condition. You must first be cleared by your doctor to begin rehabilitation, and your program should be supervised by either a medical professional or a rehabilitation specialist. If rehabilitation activities cause any swelling or discomfort, stop exercising and rest. Apply ice packs two to three times per day for 20 minutes each time to any area that is swollen.
- Exercising your knee after treatment without medical consent and supervision can result in further injuries and damage your knee joint considerably.
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