Recovering from a total knee replacement is gradual and can take up to a year. Physical therapy is a crucial part of the recovery process after total knee replacement. It can provide you with essential guidance and exercises to help you regain strength, mobility and independence. With repetition in PT, you can work to regain strength; many people are able to return to certain daily activities within three to six months.
Role of PT in knee replacement recovery
Physical therapy can be especially helpful for those who are going through, or have already undergone, a surgical procedure like total knee replacement. PT can strengthen muscles and increase mobility and flexibility. Common goals of PT after total knee replacement are to reduce swelling and pain, build flexibility in the knee, and keep your joints mobile.
5 essential PT exercises after total knee replacement
Your physical therapist will let you know how many repetitions to do for each exercise.
- Ankle pumps
Sit or lie down with your legs extended. Slowly point your toes downward and flex them back toward your body. Repeat several times.
- Heel slides
Lie on your back with your legs extended. Slowly bending your injured knee upright, slide your heel as far back as possible, toward your buttocks. Hold this position for a few seconds and slide your heel back down to the starting position.
- Straight leg raises
Lie on your back with your affected leg extended and the other leg bent at the knee. Lift your affected leg slowly about 6 inches off the floor , keeping your leg straight. Hold for five to 10 seconds, and slowly lower back down.
- Step-ups
As you progress in recovery, use a sturdy step or platform to step up with your injured leg, and then step back down. This exercise helps to improve your balance.
- Cardiovascular exercise
Once you are cleared, your physical therapist will have you try incorporating simple activities like walking, swimming or biking into your recovery process.
What REPAIR SI offers for post-knee replacement PT
With a team of expert therapists and trainers, REPAIR SI offers many pre-/postsurgical rehab services to provide you with individualized care after total knee replacement. Through modalities such as physical therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic care and fitness training, our customizable treatment plans target your needs, and are designed to help restore your movement and comfort.
At REPAIR SI, the goal is not just for you to recover, but for you to thrive. Postsurgery recovery is a process, and we’re with you every step of the way. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.