What exercises increase the range of motion after bilateral knee replacement surgery?

After undergoing bilateral knee replacement surgery, it's crucial to engage in exercises that help increase your range of motion (ROM) and restore knee mobility. Here are some exercises that can help:

1. Straight Leg Raises:

- Lie on your back with your legs straight.

- Slowly lift one leg until your knee is fully straight, keeping the other leg flat on the ground.

- Hold the position for a few seconds, then slowly lower your leg back down.

- Repeat with the other leg.

- Aim for 10-15 repetitions on each leg, multiple times throughout the day.

2. Hamstring Stretch:

- Stand facing a wall or chair, with one foot in front of the other.

- Bend your front knee and keep your back heel flat on the ground.

- Gently push your hips forward until you feel a stretch in the back of your knee and thigh.

- Hold the position for 20-30 seconds, then relax and repeat with the other leg.

- Aim for 5-10 repetitions on each leg, several times a day.

3. Calf Stretch:

- Stand on a step or curb with your heels hanging off the edge.

- Keep your knees straight and your toes pointing forward while lowering your heels until you feel a stretch in your calves.

- Hold the position for 20-30 seconds, then slowly raise your heels back up.

- Aim for 5-10 repetitions, several times a day.

4. Knee Flexion Exercise:

- Sit or lie down with one knee bent and your foot flat on the ground.

- Gently flex your knee until your knee is fully bent.

- Hold the position for a few seconds, then slowly straighten your leg back out.

- Repeat with the other leg.

- Aim for 10-15 repetitions on each leg, multiple times a day.

5. Quadriceps Stretch:

- Stand facing a wall or chair with one leg in front of the other.

- Bend your back knee and grab your ankle with your hand, pulling your heel toward your buttock.

- Hold the position for 20-30 seconds, then relax and repeat with the other leg.

- Aim for 5-10 repetitions on each leg, several times a day.

6. Side Lying Leg Raises:

- Lie on your side with the knee of your bottom leg bent and your top leg straight out in front of you.

- Slowly lift your top leg up until it is in line with your body, keeping your knee straight.

- Hold the position for a few seconds, then slowly lower your leg back down.

- Repeat with the other leg.

- Aim for 10-15 repetitions on each leg, multiple times a day.

Remember to consult with your physical therapist or healthcare provider before starting any exercise program after surgery. They will design a tailored plan based on your individual needs, recovery progress, and precautions necessary for your specific case.