Do I Need A Knee Replacement?
From walking up the stairs to hitting the gym, healthy knees empower a high quality of life. When knees become unhealthy or injured, many patients experience less mobility and, overall, less freedom. Many physicians suggest that a total knee replacement can relieve joint pain while increasing function. Total knee replacements typically take about 3 months to heal, with complete recovery taking up to a year. To regain strength and overall range of motion quickly, doctors recommend low-impact exercises focused on building muscle.
Don’t stay stationary
To strengthen the quadriceps, doctors suggest using the stationary bike or elliptical in the gym. Cardiovascular exercises that strengthen the quadriceps are key to expediting recovery time. Strong and supportive quadriceps create a stable movement for the knee, protecting the joint while developing the muscle.
Sliding into recovery
After surgery, knees can become stiff and difficult to bend. Some experts suggest practicing heel slides to ensure scar tissue doesn’t form around the new joint. Start by lying on the back with legs stretched out flat. Slowly slide one heel close to the buttocks, maintaining the stretch for 1-2 seconds before sliding the heel back down. Numerous healthcare professionals recommend starting with 2 sets of 10 reps, adding sets as the joint regains motion.
Take a knee
Exercises that target the glutes are vital to ensure the knee has enough support and stability to heal. Knee-push downs help build muscle while improving the knee’s extension abilities. Begin by lying on the floor with a rolled-up towel positioned beneath the ankles. Press the knees toward the floor using the quads, hold for 5 seconds and repeat 20 times.
Have a sit
Recovery from a robotic total knee replacement takes several months at a minimum and a year at a maximum. Since many patients will return to work before the full year is up, physicians suggest becoming familiar with seated leg extensions. Start by sitting on the first half of a chair with the back straight and legs uncrossed. Straighten the surgical leg, stopping when movement becomes painful. Repeat 10 times per set, practicing 2 sets per day.
Returning to your life
Chronic knee pain is a leading cause of musculoskeletal disability in the United States. Many patients elect to undergo a robotic total knee replacement to lessen pain levels and regain mobility. While recovery can take as long as a year, some doctors note that exercise is crucial for regaining function. By practicing regular, low-impact exercise, patients can ease the recovery process, getting back to what’s important faster than ever.
