INTRO: Which is the most important organ in your body? Your answers would probably differ depending on your previous or most recent medical history. But we are talking about knee health. Ironically, a majority of humans do not give much thought to this joint until it becomes seriously affected, making them go down on their knees seeking a cure. This write-up is dedicated to sharing information on knee strengthening exercises after surgery, should someone require knee surgery at some point in their lives.
ARTICLE: Healthy knees allow human beings to move around easily. Imagine not being able to dance at a close relative’s wedding or even perform a simple task as getting up from a chair or bed without someone’s assistance to just go to the bathroom, only a few steps away from your bed! The thought is indeed quite chilling! And if you have just undergone knee surgery, you are probably looking for a cure to expedite your recovery. This is where knee strengthening exercises after surgery can come in handy.
Why should you care for your knees? Knees allow us to move, bear the weight of our body, help us maintain our balance, and perform myriad other tasks that are a part of our daily routine. They give you the freedom to live life without depending on others. Here we are talking about post-surgical knee care. This includes medication, diet, and suitable exercises. So, if you are recovering from knee surgery, the doctor may advise knee strengthening exercises after surgery, to help you recover at the earliest.
What should you Do and What should you Avoid After Knee Surgery?
- Take the prescribed medication.
- Wear attire that you can put on comfortably while sitting or lying down.
- Avoid bending, squatting, or reaching out to grab something that you need.
- Do not sit in the same position for long.
- Keep your affected leg stretched out while sitting.
- Use a comfortable armchair with a cushion to sit.
- Be careful while sitting down and standing up.
- Observe the postures advised by your doctor.
- Use crutches or a walker to walk.
- Wear shoes with anti-skid soles.
- Avoid lifting heavy weights and exerting the operated knee joint.
- Take someone’s help to bathe.
Knee Strengthen Exercises After Surgery:
What do knee strengthening exercises after surgery exactly include? These include knee stability exercises, also known as knee joint strengthening exercises and knee rehabilitation exercises.
Knee stability exercises help stabilize the operated knee joint, besides strengthening the muscles around the operated knee joint, and alleviating post-surgical knee pain. These are also known as knee joint strengthening exercises or knee rehabilitation exercises.
OVERVIEW: The knee stability exercises, knee joint strengthening exercises, or knee rehabilitation exercises include straight leg raises, standing knee bends, cycling on a stationary bike, quad sets, and swimming, among others.
HOW TO PERFORM EXERCISES?
- Straight Leg Raises: These can be performed lying down. Lie down on your back, bending the healthy knee with the sole of your healthy leg pressed against the floor, and your operated knee pressed straight against the bed or floor. Lift the affected leg towards the ceiling, repeating the movements as advised by the doctor.
- Standing Knee Bends: Stand with the support of a walker or crutches. Lift your leg, and bend the operated knee joint as much as possible.
- Cycling on a stationary bike: This includes exercising on a stationary bike. The appliance can be adjusted as per the workout requirements.
- Quad Sets: Lie down and includes press your knee against the bed or floor while keeping your leg straight.
- Swimming: This is known to aid healing by strengthening the muscles around the operated knee joint.
FAQ:
Q. HOW LONG IS KNEE SURGERY RECOVERY?
Ans. Around six months to one year, depending on the patient’s age. With knee stability exercises it could even take lesser time to recover.
Q. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO WALK AFTER KNEE SURGERY?
Ans. Patients can start walking with the help of crutches or walkers within 24 hours of the surgery. However, Knee rehabilitation exercises can help you walk unaided within three to four weeks.
Q. HOW LONG IS BED REST AFTER KNEE SURGERY?
Ans. Very brief. Patients are encouraged to start moving as soon as the effect of the anaesthesia wears off to expedite their recovery.
Q. WHAT IS GENERAL RECOVERY TIME FOR KNEE SURGERY?
Ans. Six weeks to one year. But knee joint strengthening exercises can help a patient return to normalcy even sooner.
CONCLUSION: Consult your doctor today. Use these proven techniques to make that annoying knee pain surrender and live life to the fullest!