Recovering from knee replacement surgery can feel overwhelming, but taking proactive steps toward regaining strength and mobility will help ensure a smooth recovery. The right exercises, tailored to your stage of healing, can accelerate your progress and improve the overall outcome of your surgery.
At Coastal Orthopedics, with locations in Bradenton, West Bradenton, and Lakewood Ranch, we help patients across Manatee County recover confidently and comfortably after total knee replacement.
- The Importance of Exercise After Knee Replacement
- Safety Tips Before You Begin
- 5 Essential Exercises for Knee Replacement Recovery
- When to Advance to More Challenging Exercises
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Call to Action: Begin Your Recovery with Expert Guidance
The Importance of Exercise After Knee Replacement
Exercise is critical for helping you regain strength, improve mobility, and achieve the best possible outcome after knee replacement surgery. Consistent, low-impact movements minimize stiffness, promote circulation, and prevent complications like blood clots.
Safety Tips Before You Begin
Before starting any exercise program, keep these tips in mind:
- Always follow your surgeon or physical therapist’s advice.
- Start slow and focus on proper form over intensity.
- Stop immediately if you experience sharp pain.
- Use supportive equipment, such as a walker or cane, as recommended.
If you’re unsure when or how to begin, consult your orthopedic surgeon or visit our Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation page for personalized guidance.
5 Essential Exercises for Knee Replacement Recovery
1. Ankle Pumps
Purpose: Promotes blood flow and reduces the risk of blood clots.
- Lie flat on your back with your legs extended.
- Slowly flex your ankles upward (point your toes toward your head).
- Return to the starting position and repeat 10-15 times per leg.
2. Heel Slides
Purpose: Improves knee flexibility and range of motion.
- Sit or lie on your back with your legs extended.
- Slowly slide your heel toward your buttocks while keeping your foot on the floor.
- Hold for 5 seconds, then return to the starting position.
- Perform 10 repetitions on each leg.
3. Quadriceps Sets
Purpose: Strengthens the muscles supporting your knee joint.
- Sit with your legs extended and a rolled-up towel under your knee.
- Pressing the back of your knee into the towel will tighten your quadriceps (the muscles at the front of your thigh).
- Hold for 5 seconds, then relax.
- Repeat 10-15 times per leg.
4. Straight Leg Raises
Purpose: Builds strength in the quadriceps without straining the knee.
- Lie on your back with one leg bent and the other straight.
- Tighten your thigh muscles and lift the straight leg about 6 inches off the floor.
- Hold for 5 seconds, then slowly lower it back down.
- Perform 10 repetitions on each leg.
5. Knee Flexion and Extension Stretch
Purpose: Enhances flexibility and prevents stiffness.
- Sit on the edge of a chair with your feet flat on the floor.
- Slowly extend your leg forward until it is straight.
- Hold for 5 seconds, then bend your knee as far as possible.
- Repeat 10 times per leg.
When to Advance to More Challenging Exercises
Your recovery will progress over time. Once you’ve built a foundation of strength and mobility with these exercises, your physical therapist may recommend more advanced movements, like walking programs, balance exercises, and light resistance training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Begin Your Recovery with Expert Guidance
At Coastal Orthopedics, we specialize in helping patients recover stronger and faster after knee replacement surgery. Our personalized rehabilitation plans, guided by experienced orthopedic specialists and physical therapists, ensure you regain mobility safely and effectively. Explore our Hip & Knee services to learn more about your treatment options.
Ready to take the first step toward recovery?
Schedule an appointment at Coastal Orthopedics and start your journey to a pain-free, active life.
