The recovery process can be challenging after getting knee replacement surgery to help with mobility and relieve pain. Improving knee flexion helps ensure a full recovery and prevent long-term complications.
Whether you have undergone a knee replacement, ACL reconstruction, or another procedure, rest, an improved knee flexion will let you walk, climb stairs, and perform daily tasks without pain. This article discusses different ways to help your knee flexion and return to moving about comfortably.
I. What is Knee Flexion?
Knee flexion is the bending of the knee joint, which allows a range of movement. After surgeries like ACL reconstruction or knee replacement, the movement range is limited because of inflammation or weakened muscles.
Recovering full knee flexion is important because it would restore normal movement and prevent secondary issues like joint instability. Factors like swelling and inflammation, scar tissue, muscle weakness, and pain are some of the common reasons for limited knee flexion after surgery.
II. Step-by-Step Exercises to Improve Knee Flexion
It is noteworthy that every single step involves being active. Slowly and steadily, you will recover. You can improve knee flexion after surgery by considering the following:
A. Early Stage (0-6 weeks)
The major focus here is to reduce swelling and improve mobility
- Ankle pumps: Lay flat on the floor or sit down, and gently move your foot up and down to increase circulation in the lower leg.
- Leg raises: While lying flat, slowly raise your legs forward without bending your knees. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly lower your legs to the ground. This exercise helps strengthen the thigh muscles.
B. Intermediate Stage (6-12 weeks)
You would have made more progress and can work on more mobility and strength.
- Knee Flexion Stretch: While sitting or lying on your back, gently bend your knees as far as you can comfortably go. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly straighten them again.
- Wall slides: Stand with your back against the wall and slowly slide down into a squat. Hold the position for some seconds, and then slide back up.
- Hamstring stretch: while seated, extend one leg in front and gently lean forward to stretch the hamstring.
C. Advanced Stage (12+ weeks)
Here, you can intensify your exercises to further improve knee flexion. You can advance to squats, lunges, step-ups, and even resistance band exercises.
III. The Role of Physical Therapy
While performing exercise at home, consider physical therapy as well because it can speed up your recovery process. A physical therapist can help guide you through the rehabilitation stages. Some common physical therapy interventions include manual therapy with hands-on techniques to reduce stiffness and improve flexibility.
IV. Additional Tips
- Use ice to reduce swelling and heat to reduce any stiffness you may feel.
- Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids into your diet.
- Always hydrate.
- Be mindful. Don’t push past your comfort zone with the exercises.
- Use assisting devices like braces or knee support.
- Always consult your doctors if you notice unusual pain, swelling, or decline in recent progress made.
Final Overview
With the right combination of physical therapy, exercise and self-care, you can improve your knee flexion after surgery. Recovery doesn’t happen overnight, but being consistent brings you right to where you want to be. Connect with Dr Niraj Vora for total knee replacement surgery in Mumbai.