Exercise Guide for Knee Replacement

Knee replacement surgery has a high success rate among patients with severe knee arthritis. To achieve the best possible results, however, it is essential to begin a customized rehabilitation program immediately after surgery and to continue that program as directed by a physician or physical therapist. Over time, the program will evolve as some exercises are discontinued and others are added. Progressive physical therapy is essential for regaining joint strength and range of motion following a knee replacement.

Nirschl Orthopaedic Center (NOC) offers physical therapy through Virginia Sportsmedicine Institute (VSI), which has two state-of-the-art sports medicine centers located nearby in Arlington and McLean, Virginia. After undergoing knee replacement surgery, many of our patients benefit from individualized physical therapy services provided by experienced and licensed therapists at VSI.

Exercises for the Early Post-Surgical Recovery Phase

Each knee replacement patient receives a specific physical therapy program to follow after surgery. Here is how to perform some of our most commonly recommended exercises:

  • Ankle pumps – Lie on your back with your legs extended, then perform a back-and-forth pumping motion with your feet by rhythmically contracting your calf and shin muscles.
  • Heel slides – Lie on your back with your legs extended. Slowly bend your surgical knee and slide your heel toward your buttocks, then slide your heel back down to re-extend your leg.
  • Knee straightening – Lie on your back with your legs extended. Place a rolled-up towel underneath the heel of your surgical leg, then tighten your thigh muscles and try to press the back of your knee into your bed. Hold for 10 seconds, then relax.
  • Quadriceps sets – Lie on your back with your legs extended. In your surgical leg, contract your thigh muscle (quadriceps) and focus on pulling your kneecap toward your thigh. Hold for 10 seconds, then relax.
  • Straight leg lifts – Lie on your back with your legs extended. Raise the heel of your surgical leg a few inches off the bed while keeping your leg as straight as possible. Hold for 10 seconds, then, slowly lower your heel.

Many patients perform their exercise routine 2-3 times per week in addition to walking for at least 30 minutes every day.

If you have questions about knee replacement surgery, you can request a consultation with a knee specialist at Nirschl Orthopaedic Center in Arlington, VA, by calling (703) 525-2200. Our surgeons and physical therapists can help you overcome the challenges of your painful knee and get back to what you do best.