Doing these exercises before your knee replacement can help speed up your recovery. Ask your physical therapist (PT) if you should exercise one or both legs. Unless you’re told otherwise, start by doing each exercise 5 to 10 times (5 to 10 reps) twice a day (2 sets). As you get stronger, slowly increase the number of reps and sets.
Stop any exercise that causes sharp or increased knee pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
Ankle pumps
Ankle pumps can help prevent circulation problems, such as blood clots. Do ankle pumps by pointing and flexing your feet.
Quadriceps sets
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Lie on your back in bed, legs straight.
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Tighten the muscle at the front of the thigh as you press the back of your knee down toward the bed. Hold for a few seconds. Then relax the leg.
Straight leg raises
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Lie in bed. Bend a leg. Keep your other leg straight on the bed.
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Lift your straight leg as high as you comfortably can but not higher than 12 inches. Hold for a few seconds. Then slowly lower the leg.
Online Medical Reviewer: Marianne Fraser MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
Online Medical Reviewer: Vinita Wadhawan Researcher
Date Last Reviewed: 12/01/2024
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.Related Articles
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