Exercise after Total knee replacement surgery (TKR)

Nakul Mehta

Hello, my grandfather at the age of 68 years had a total knee replacement surgery (TKR). His surgery was 3 months ago. We hired a physiotherapist, but for some reason, he won’t be able to take his sessions for the next week. I wasn’t there in all the sessions, so it would be helpful if anyone can suggest some exercises that can be performed after Total knee replacement surgery (TKR)?

Shivansh Mehra

@nakul-mehta Hello, The following exercises will help increase circulation to his legs and feet, which is important for preventing blood clots. They will also help strengthen his muscles and improve knee movement.

Quadriceps Sets
Ask him to Tighten his thigh muscles. Try to straighten your knee. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds. Repeat this exercise approximately 10 times during a two-minute period, rest one minute, and then repeat. Continue until your thigh feels fatigued.
Straight Leg Raises
Tighten thigh muscle with your knee fully straightened on the bed, as with the quadriceps set above. Lift his leg several inches. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds. Slowly lower. You also can do leg raises while sitting. Tighten your thigh muscle and hold your knee fully straightened with your leg unsupported. Repeat as above.
Straight Leg Raises
Tighten thigh muscle with your knee fully straightened on the bed, as with the quadriceps set above. Lift his leg several inches. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds. Slowly lower. Repeat until your thigh feels fatigued.
Knee Straightening Exercises
Place a small rolled towel just above his heel so that your heel is not touching the bed. Tighten your thigh. Try to fully straighten his knee and touch the back of his knee to the bed. Hold fully straightened for 5 to 10 seconds. Repeat until your thigh feels fatigued.
He may experience knee pain or swelling after exercise or activity. You can relieve this by elevating his leg and applying ice wrapped in a towel. Exercise and activity should consistently improve your strength and mobility. In case of any problems, contact your orthopedic surgeon or physical therapist.