Knee replacement surgery is one of the effective treatments to regain an active and healthy life. With the ease in routine life movements and exercise flexibility provided after the procedure, knee replacement is a worthy choice for post-injury recovery or knee damage due to aging.
The post-surgery recovery period is around 11-12 weeks. With the newly implanted painless and efficient knee, one can perform normal activities that the patient was unable to do with the old aching knee. Consult with a doctor before initiating a new workout regimen after surgery.
Some exercises can accelerate the wear of the new knee faster and can even result in injury. Exercises to avoid after knee-surgery:
High-Impact Aerobics
One must avoid aerobics at first. The jarring impact on the knee can place a risky strain on a new knee that is not supported by proper muscle strength. Consistent high-impact on an artificial knee can also wear it out faster. Its always recommended consulting with a physician before resuming or starting an aerobics after knee surgery. For safety, it may be prescribed some low-impact modifications replace some high-impact moves.
High-Shock Sports
High shock exercises are bad after knee surgery because there is the risk of twisting the knee joint or hits to the knee by other players.
Sports to avoid post-surgery:
- Cricket
- Soccer
- Basketball
- Hockey
- Football
Sprinting Running
The explosive starts and fast pace of sprinting can be an issue for people with a knee replacement. Until cleared by a physician, it's better to walk gently for a certain period until the physician allows running.
Safe Exercises After Knee Replacement Surgery
Performing some low-impact exercises help for a speedier recovery after surgery. These exercises assist with regaining muscle strength to support the new knee. Here are some functional activities to try after a knee replacement:
Cycling
Cycling can help maintain the strength of the overall body. It also helps one to get used to the new knee joint. One must avoid lengthy routes and bumpy surfaces to prevent pressure on the knee.
Swimming
The best part of swimming is that the water supports the body, so there is no weight or stress on the joints. It is an effective muscle strengthening exercise without interfering with post-surgery knee recovery.
Walking
This exercise is the easiest to perform after knee surgery while being gentle on the knee itself. Initially, take steps with a shorter stride, lengthening the stride as the muscles grow stronger. One can healthily enjoy the outdoors until the doctor approves longer distances.
Low-Resistance Workouts
Low resistance workouts are performed using lighter weights but keeping a high repetition range. Although these can be performed safely after a knee replacement, one must consult with a physical therapist because they know about proper technique and can recommend exercises based on individual conditions.
Knee replacements are popular because of short recovery periods and long term efficiency. One can expect to perform most of the activities after a knee replacement if the patient is compliant and follows the instructions of the physicians.
For more information on knee replacement surgery and recovery tips, contact Dr. Dan Albright at 919-863-6808.
