Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Recovery Exercises
To prevent complications of post operative knee surgery it is important to get the knee working as soon as practical and so rehabilitation after arthroscopic knee surgery is a citical step in recovery . This article examines exercises that can be used in arthroscopy knee surgery recovery.
Following arthroscopic knee surgery, it is imperative that you start knee exercises immediately. The aim of the exercises is to not only restore strength to the knee joint but to also help restore a full range of motion to the knee.
Listed below are four knee rehabilitation exercises that you can start with. These are non-weight bearing exercises and will assist in restoring the range of motion to the knee as well as gently strengthening the muscles around the knee.
Remember, however, that any exercise regimen should first of all be discussed with your orthopedic surgeon before commencement. It is most likely that you will be given similar exercises by your surgeon. An early start to exercising is usually recommended by most surgeons but some may suggest waiting a few days after the knee surgery before commencing an exercise routine.
In the early stages following your knee arthroscopy surgery you may feel some discomfort in the knee joint and possibly some swelling. This isn’t unusual and antiflammatory medication is usually prescribed to help relieve these symptoms.
When doing these exercises you should not experience any pain. If you do then you should cease them immediately and rest the knee joint. You may, however, feel a gentle stretching sensation when you first begin but should not feel any real pain. Afterwards it is good practice to elevate your leg and apply ice to help reduce any swelling that may occur.
Here are the four exercises that can be used, subject to confirmation by your orthopaedic surgeon, immediately after your knee arthroscopy. When doing these exercises it is important that the motion be gentle and steady and not jerky. Over-stretching must be avoided.
The first exercise stretches the quadriceps:
- Lay on your back on a flat surface. Put a rolled up towel beneath your ankle. Now push your ankle down into the towel. You will notice that your knee will tend to straighten. Try to straighten the knee as much as you can. Hold the position for about five seconds. Then relax for a few seconds and repeat the exercise 9 times (ten in total). Remember to keep all motion smooth.
The second exercise – Straight Leg Raises:
- Again, lay on your back on a flat surface. Straighten the leg that was operated on and keep it straight while bending your other leg to about an angle of 90 degrees so that the foot is flat on the floor. Contract the front thigh muscles and slowly raise the operated on leg about six inches (15 centimetres) off the floor. Hold this position for about 5 seconds and then lower your leg. Rest for a few seconds and then repeat the exercise another 9 times. Remember to keep the knee straight at all times.
The third exercise is for the hamstrings – Hamstring Contractions:
- Lie on your back and bend both knees to 10 to 15 degree angle. While keeping your legs still, pull your heel into the floor causing the muscles on the back of your thigh to contract. Again, hold this position for about five seconds and then rest for a few seconds before repeating. Do this exercise 10 times.
The fourth exercise involves the gluteal muscles. These are the three muscles that comprise the buttocks:
- Lie on your back and bend your knees to a 10 to 15 degree angle. Now squeeze your buttock muscles together and hold for a count of 5. Rest for a few seconds and then repeat for a total of 10 sets
By following this exercise regimen you should prevent any complications of post operative knee surgery.
Arthritis Knee Exercises Strengthen the Muscles That Support the Knee
Arthritis knee exercises are very important if one is experiencing arthritis in the knee joints. Exercise is one way to maintain a strong and healthy cartilage as it has the effect of strengthening the tendons and muscles that support the knee.
Knee health is critical and will have a profound impact on your daily life. Do you find yourself struggling to run, bend your knees or getting out of your seat.
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Tags: Arthroscopy, arthroscopy knee surgery recovery, complications of post operative knee surgery, exercises, knee surgery, orthopedic. orthopaedic, rehabilitation after arthroscopic knee surgeryCategory : Knee Rehabilitation and Exercises
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