What are some knee replacement exercises to avoid?
Knee replacement can dramatically alter mobility and quality of life for those with severe knee issues. However, proper recovery is crucial to ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of the replacement.
One vital aspect of rehabilitation is understanding which exercises to avoid. Engaging in certain activities too soon can lead to complications, delayed healing, or even damage to the new joint.
This blog will explore the essential knee replacement exercises to avoid and emphasize two critical exercises that can hinder recovery.
Understanding the Recovery Process
Patients typically can’t wait to go back to everyday activities after such a surgery. Although some level of activity is essential to facilitating recovery, it needs to be done with caution.
The healing process differs radically in different people, and what may have been harmless to you might pose dangers to your new knee joint.
Why Avoid Certain Exercises?
Some exercises may put too much strain on your knee, while others may cause soreness, injury, or complications.
The goal of the exercises during rehabilitation is to tighten all the muscles on the knee without causing too much strain on the joint. Understanding which exercises to avoid is essential to achieving this balance.
Also Read: Top 5 mistakes after knee replacement
What are some knee replacement exercises to Avoid?
Top Knee Replacement Exercises to Avoid
Knee Replacement Exercises to Avoid | Why Avoid? | Alternatives |
1- Running and Jogging | Some activities like running and jogging put a lot of pressure on the knee joint three times the body weight. This stress can bring pain and can harm the implants as well, which can ruin their purpose. | Instead of running, consider low-impact activities like walking or cycling, which provide cardiovascular benefits without undue stress on the knee. |
2- Weight Training | Squats or deadlifts are some of the exercises that constitute heavy weight lifting. This can exert too much force on the knee joint and perhaps complicate things while recovering. | Focus on gentle strength training using light weights or resistance bands. Exercises like leg lifts and calf raises can help build muscle support while minimizing risk. |
3- High-Impact Sports | Football, basketball, and soccer are high-impact sports involving sudden movement changes and considerable body contact. This increases the chances of falls and collisions that might damage the prosthetic leg. | Perform non-contact sports or activities such as swimming or cycling, which keep you fit but safeguard your knee. |
4- Hiking on Uneven Ground | While hiking may be low-impact, trails with uneven surfaces increase the risk of falling and straining your knees. Such injuries often twist, which can be particularly catastrophic after surgery. | Stick to flat tracks or walk on a treadmill, which completely controls your environment and reduces the risk of falling. |
5- Extreme Sports | Skateboarding and rollerblading are too risky and tend to lead to falls and twists of the knee, especially after knee replacement surgery. | Other safer games for recreation, such as gentle yoga or swimming, can make you flexible and robust. |
Also Read: How to reduce swelling after knee surgery?
Two Critical Exercises to Avoid
Among the exercises to avoid, two stand out as particularly critical due to the high risk they pose:
Two Critical Exercises to Avoid | Why Avoid? | Alternatives |
1- Squats | Squats subject the knee joint to heavy stress. The action of bending can cause soreness and may even damage the newly implanted knee during the initial recovery phase. | Instead of traditional squats, consider partial or modified exercises that do not require knee bending past a safe angle. Consult your physical therapist for appropriate modifications. |
2- Leg Press | The leg press machine can cause undue pressure on the knee, especially when lifting heavy weights. This exercise intensely engages the quadriceps and hamstrings, which may not be suitable shortly after surgery. | Focus on more gentle exercises such as seated leg extensions with minimal weight or using resistance bands to engage the muscles without excessive strain on the knee. |
Guidelines for Safe Exercise After Knee Replacement
In order to help have a good recovery and ensure that your exercise program is safe, remember the following guidelines:
Listen to Your Body: It will let you know if it’s feeling comfortable or not, and it will signal you to pain, swelling or discomfort and change your activities accordingly.
Start Slowly: Begin with gentle exercises that promote movement and gradually increase intensity as your strength improves. This will help prevent overexertion and potential setbacks.
Follow Professional Guidance: Make an appointment with Dr. Muthana Sartawi prior to the beginning of any new exercise. Their expert guidance can provide personalized recommendations that cater to your individual needs and goals.
Focus on Strength and Flexibility: Concentrate on both strength and flexibility exercises. Both will really impact the functionality of your knees and will enhance mobility. Some good starting places include ankle pumps, heel slides, and gentle stretching.
Incorporate Balance Training: Balance exercises become increasingly important as your recovery progresses. Easy exercises like standing on one leg or using a balance board can significantly improve balance and safety.
Recovering from knee replacement surgery requires careful attention to your exercise regimen. Knowing which exercises to avoid is essential for a successful knee replacement recovery.
Always consult your orthopedic surgeon or physical therapist before starting any new exercise program after knee replacement. By doing it the right way, you will be able to regain strength and motion, preserve your new joints, and to a greater extent, have a more satisfying life.
For Customized professional guidance, Choose Dr. Muthana
Dr. Muthana Sartawi’s personalized approach ensures you receive the best possible care throughout your journey, guiding you every step of the way. Dr. Muthana is available to address your specific questions and recovery needs. If you’re considering knee replacement surgery or are currently on the road to recovery, Dr. Muthana Sartawi is here to help.
Take the first step towards a healthier, more active lifestyle. Schedule a consultation today.
