Knee replacement surgery marks the beginning of a transformative journey toward improved mobility and quality of life. A crucial element of this journey is following an exercise routine designed to support your knee rehabilitation process. Let’s look at some beneficial exercises for knee replacement patients.
Range of Motion Exercises (Weeks 1-2):
- Heel Slides: Gently slide your heel towards your buttocks while lying down, promoting knee flexibility. Aim for 10-15 repetitions, 2-3 times per day.
- Knee Bends: Slowly bend and straighten your knee, gradually increasing your range of motion. Start with 10 repetitions, gradually increasing to 15, 2-3 times per day.
- Ankle Pumps: Flex and extend your foot up and down, promoting circulation and preventing blood clots. Aim for 20-30 ankle pumps, 2-3 times per hour while awake.
Strengthening Exercises (Weeks 3-6):
- Leg Extensions: While sitting on a chair, straighten your knee against resistance, targeting quadriceps strength. Start with 2 sets of 10 repetitions, gradually increasing to 3 sets of 15, 2-3 times per day.
- Leg Curls: Bend your knee against resistance while lying face down, targeting hamstring strength. Begin with 2 sets of 10 repetitions, progressing to 3 sets of 15, 2-3 times per day.
- Half Squats: Bend your knees slightly, as if sitting in a chair, and then return to a standing position. Start with 10 repetitions, gradually increasing to 15, 2-3 times per day.
Balance and Stability Training (Weeks 7-10):
- Standing Knee Flexion: Lift your heel towards your buttocks while standing, enhancing knee stability. Aim for 10-15 repetitions on each leg, 2-3 times per day.
- Single-Leg Stands: Stand on one leg for a short duration, challenging balance and stability. Start with 10-15 seconds on each leg, gradually increasing to 30 seconds, 2-3 times per day.
Low-Impact Cardio (Weeks 11 and Beyond):
Incorporate walking, stationary cycling, or swimming to improve cardiovascular health without stressing your knees while improving overall fitness and endurance. Aim for 20-30 minutes, 3-5 times per week, gradually increasing duration and intensity as tolerated.
According to research, a home exercise program after knee replacement may offer similar benefits to supervised physical therapy sessions,1 but you should follow your surgeon's advice to ensure the exercises are tailored to your specific needs. If you want a supervised physical therapy from the comfort of your own home, ask us about Protera Health’s home physical therapy.. Incorporating a progressive exercise routine into your daily regimen can significantly enhance your recovery and hasten your return to an active lifestyle.
Dr. Eddie El-Yussif is a Board-Certified Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon and Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons specializing in Knee Surgery at Henry Ford Health, serving the greater Detroit area.
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