What Are The 4 Best Exercises To Do After A Total Knee Replacement?
Total knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a common procedure to repair a damaged or diseased knee joint. They are one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the Sutherland Shire and your Physiotherapist and GP can help suggest when this may be the best option for you. The surgery involves replacing the damaged parts of the knee joint with artificial components, which can help to relieve pain and improve mobility.
After undergoing total knee reconstruction surgery, it is important to follow a strict Physiotherapy rehabilitation program to help the knee heal and regain strength and flexibility. In addition, a variety of exercises can be beneficial for people who have undergone total knee reconstruction surgery. This article will discuss four of the best exercises to do after a total knee reconstruction surgery.
Straight Leg Raises
Straight leg raises are simple but effective exercises that can help strengthen the knee muscles. To perform this exercise:
Lie on your back with your legs straight.
Slowly lift one leg up, keeping it straight, and hold it in the air for a few seconds.
Lower the leg back down, and then repeat the movement with the other leg.
Knee Flexion and Extension
Knee flexion and extension exercises can improve flexibility and range of motion in the knee joint. To perform these exercises:
Sit on the edge of a chair with your feet flat on the floor.
Slowly bend your knee, bringing your foot towards your body, and then straighten your leg again.
Repeat the movement several times, switch legs and repeat the exercise on the other side.
Step-Ups
Step-ups are a more challenging exercise that can help to improve strength and balance in the leg muscles. To perform this exercise:
Stand in front of a step or low bench.
Place your injured leg on the step, and then use your other leg to push yourself up, bringing your injured leg up onto the step.
Step back down with your injured leg and repeat the movement several times.
Stationary Bike
Riding a stationary bike is a low-impact exercise that can help to improve cardiovascular fitness and strengthen the muscles around the knee. To perform this exercise:
Sit on a stationary bike.
Adjust the seat so your knee is bent at a 90-degree angle when the pedal is at the bottom of the stroke.
Slowly pedal the bike, keeping your knee bent at the same angle throughout the movement.
How Aevum Health Physiotherapy Can Assist
Overall, these four exercises can be beneficial for people who have undergone total knee reconstruction surgery. By incorporating these exercises into a rehabilitation program, people can improve strength and flexibility in their knee, which can help to enhance their overall recovery and improve their long-term health and well-being.
Ready to get started? Contact our physiotherapy team in your local area, including Aevum physio Helensburgh, physiotherapy Sutherland Shire, physio Kirrawee, Illawong physio, Engadine physiotherapy or Cronulla physiotherapy.