New Delhi: Knee replacement surgery is a life-changing operation for patients with severe knee pain or restricted movement. However, the primary factor that determines success in most cases of recovery is rehabilitation, especially with the use of exercise. The right exercises after surgery can go a long way in helping to speed up recovery, restore the functionality of the joint involved, and enhance one’s quality of life. Dr. Rohan R Desai, Consultant – Hip & Knee Replacement Surgeon Orthopaedics, Manipal Hospital, Goa, explained how regular workouts can speed up recovery after a knee replacement.
- Promotes Blood Circulation: The postoperative exercises facilitate proper circulation of blood to the knee joint thus minimising the levels of swelling in addition to promoting tissue repair. Ankle pumps and quadriceps sets done during the early recovery period help reduce the formation of blood clots and enhance the circulation of oxygenated blood through the surgical area.
- Brings Movement and Joint Flexibility: Knee joint contracture is one of the major complications encountered after the operation. Passive movements, including sliding the heel on the ground, help to maintain the mobility of the joint. This assisted in regaining full mobility around the joint and reduced cases of stiffness that may persist for a long time.
- Builds Strength: Isolated exercises involve developing the muscles around the knee region including the quads, hamstring, and the calf’s muscles. This extra support relieves some pressure from the joint and at the same time, enhances the individual’s stability during specific activities.
- Improves Balance and Coordination: Balance training activities such as standing on one leg or using a balance board assist in retraining proprioception which enables the body to perceive the position of the joint. This minimizes the chance of him or her falling and sustaining more complications in the process.
- Accelerates Independence: Frequent physical activity enhances recovery time so that such a person can get back to normal life, job, and leisure pursuits faster. These include activities like getting up from a chair or going up and down the stairs and exercising to simplify the daily tasks to encourage an independent lifestyle.
Guidelines for Post-Surgery Exercise
- Start Early, but Safely: Light exercises can be performed with the help of a physical therapist immediately after surgery or at the latest within the first 24 postoperative hours.
- Follow a Structured Plan: Pursue the course of physiotherapy as it was recommended by your doctor regarding daily exercises according to the Stage of recovery and the requirements of the patient.
- Avoid Overexertion: Pain is an indication that one should not continue; overstraining while performing some exercises is likely to cause other problems or even a reversal of progress.
- Incorporate Low-Impact Activities: A gradual approach while performing swimming, cycling, or walking helps in maintaining joint health without overloading it.
It’s crucial to stress that exercise is a critical part of the recovery process after knee replacement surgery. When done purposefully and systematically, it shortens the recovery time, helps to regain the full range of normal activities, and provides the clients with the tools for having an engaging life. Please always ensure that you discuss with your healthcare team regarding a plan of rehabilitation to suit your needs and goals.
Isolated exercises involve developing the muscles around the knee region including the quads, hamstring, and the calf’s muscles. This extra support relieves some pressure from the joint and at the same time, enhances the individual’s stability during specific activities. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare