Doctor-recommended exercises for better recovery post-knee replacement surgery

Doctors encourage physical activity after knee replacement surgery. However, it might mean adapting your workouts in ways that lessen the impact on your knees

Knee issues are widespread among individuals of all ages. The body undergoes various changes as it ages and one area that is particularly impacted is bone strength. As people get older, their bones tend to weaken and their joints become less mobile. When all conventional medical treatments fail to provide relief, knee pain can become so severe that it hinders daily activities and may cause swelling and even deformity of the knee. 

When there is unbearable knee pain due to arthritis or any injury then the last resort is knee replacement surgery which can be a boon for patients. The surgery is a game-changer in case of patients who are unable to walk, are in immense pain, have to take pain relief medicines daily and have difficulty in doing day-to-day activities.

Dr Pramod Bhor, director of orthopedics and robotic joint replacement surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Vashi explains, “During the knee replacement surgery, the destroyed cartilage and the bony tissues are removed from the knee cap and replaced via high-grade plastic or metal alloys that act as the joint. The procedure relieves pain and restores normal joint function. The replaced knee functions like the normal one, but the patient might take some time to adjust and perform activities with the new knee. Performing low-intensity exercises like walking, resistance training and low-impact aerobics can be helpful. However, speak to the doctor before undertaking any activity”.

The key to successfully adapting to your new knee joint and returning to an active lifestyle lies in undergoing a comprehensive rehabilitation process. This not only ensures long-term benefits but also promotes a swift and effective recovery from the surgery itself. Your physiotherapist will play an instrumental role in guiding you through the recovery and rehabilitation process.  

Dr Supreet Bajwa, minimally invasive hip replacement surgeon, Nexus Day Surgery Centre says, “The ultimate goal is to optimise the use of your newly implanted joint by implementing a personalised exercise regime designed specifically for muscle-strengthening purposes. It may take anywhere from six months to a year to fully recover and regain full strength. In order to recover as soon as possible, it is important to stay active. By following an active lifestyle and regularly doing physiotherapist’s prescribed exercises, patients can regain joint strength quickly and perform activities they were unable to do before, within two to three weeks”.
 
Ensure that you control your body weight. It is crucial to maintain a healthy weight as an increase in weight can lead to faster joint deterioration and potential damage to the artificial joint due to excessive pressure. Since the knees bear the entire body weight, it is essential to keep a healthy weight in order to minimise stress on the knees. 

Total knee replacement surgeries have a high success rate and help people bounce back. Within a few months, most patients can regain almost normal joint functioning and engage in their usual activities comfortably. However, it is crucial to prioritise proper exercise, maintaining an active lifestyle, managing weight, and regular health checks to prevent any potential damage. 

Disclaimer: This information does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified specialist or your physician for personalised guidance.

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