Knee Replacement Rehabilitation Protocol
Pre-Operative
Maximise conditioning for accelerated recovery
Physiotherapy assessment to optimize joint strength, ROM, flexibility and balance
Use of stationary bike to strengthen quadriceps (thigh) muscle
Balance and core exercises (e.g. Pilates, yoga, Wii-Fit)
Weeks 0-2
Soft Tissues
Swelling reduction critical to reduce pain and improve ROM (aim 0-90°)
Cold therapy 6-8 times per day (for 20 min. periods)
Constant leg elevation (ankle at level of chest whilst reclining or lying down) unless exercising
Short leg TEDS stockings both lower limbs with double layer tubigrip to operated knee
Regular calf and quads co-contractions
Rehab exercises
3-4 times per day
Follow with ice to knee and elevation of leg for 20-30 minutes
Mobility
Immediate full weight bearing with crutches
Gait re-training aiming to optimize heel strike, full knee extension and toe off
Week 2 – Week 6
Soft Tissues
No dressings from day 14 unless during hydrotherapy
Daily scar and lower limb massage e.g. Vit E, sorbolene cream, bio-oil
Continue with swelling reduction techniques as above
Tubigrip to knee during day only
Stocking not required on opposite leg.
Rehab exercises
Commence outpatient hydrotherapy program 1-2 times per week
Continue with exercises as directed by physio
Stationary bike can commence at 3-5 weeks
Mobility
Walking 10 to 20 minutes 1-2 times per day
Slowly wean off ambulatory aids at home
Continue use outdoors
Week 6 - Week 12
Rehab exercises
Continue home-based exercises including ROM (aim 0-120°) and lower limb stretches
Increase strengthening exercises e.g. resistance bike and gym program
Mobility
Increase walking distance 20 to 40 minutes per day
Weeks 12+
Return to functional activities
Resumption of normal activities (e.g. golf, tennis, bike riding and bowls)
Kneeling on knee can commence on soft cushions for short periods of time if comfortable
Consider long term exercise program to optimize knee function (e.g.: bike 3 times per week, swimming, gym exercise, balance)
Do you need a
Knee replacement?
Dr Seeto in affiliation with Medibank Private and East Sydney Private hospital, offers a program for eligible Medibank Private Members, to eliminate medical out of pocket costs for your Knee Replacement.
The program includes a pre-surgery preparation program, spending the minimal time necessary in hospital, as well as home rehabilitation if necessary.
Book a consultation
today
9:00 am - 4:30 pm