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Knee Replacement Long-Term Exercises

After a total or partial knee replacement surgery, patients will typically undergo a full physical therapy treatment plan focusing on regaining full range of motion (ROM) within the joint and increased muscle strengthening surrounding the affected limb. However, patients must also continue a home exercise program long after surgery to maintain the progress of initial therapy.

  1. Range-of-Motion Exercises

    • To maintain the natural movement of the knee joint and prevent joint "freezing," patients will benefit from focusing on exercises that require flexion and extension at the knee capsule. According to eHealthMD.com, a heel slide is an exercise that can benefit in both areas and can be done at any time. While laying down, the patient will slide the foot of the affected limb toward the buttocks until a mild stretch is felt. The patient will then slide the foot in the opposite direction to promote extension in the joint. Ankle weights or the use of a resistance band can also be added to the exercise to help focus more on strengthening the quadriceps and hamstring muscle groups critical to proper knee function.

    Strengthening Exercises

    • Patients must also focus on increasing the strength in both legs to prevent muscle atrophy commonly seen after surgery. According to Allina Hospitals and Clinics (AHC), exercises such as sitting in a chair and flexing the quadriceps muscle while lifting the lower leg can help promote increased muscle tone within the patient's thigh. Depending on the ability of the patient, mini-squats while holding on to a steady surface or railing can also be very beneficial as all three major muscle groups (quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves) and solid ROM are required to complete the movement. Weight-bearing adjustments can be made to any exercise with clearance from a physician.

    Optional Knee Exercises

    • While a large number of exercises can be found that can benefit the knee joint, patients should use proper judgment and the referral of a physician whenever attempting more advanced or complex movements. In addition, if a patient is experiencing high levels of pain or discomfort during any exercise, a similar exercise with a lower level of difficulty is usually available. For example, AHC recommends gluteal sets or hamstring sets as fitting alternatives to the more difficult strengthening movements.

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