Knee replacement exercises

When you are able to walk on your own for a few steps or a short distance, you can try these exercises. Talk to your doctor before starting any of these exercises. He or she may tell you to do them in a certain way.

Standing knee bends

• Stand up straight, using a walker or crutches or hold onto something stable, such as a counter.
• Lift the thigh of your affected leg so that your knee bends.
• Lift as far as you can, and hold it for 5 to 10 seconds.
• Lower your leg, and touch the floor with your heel first.
• Do this 8 to 12 times or until your leg feels tired.

Assisted knee bends

• Lie on your back with your affected knee slightly bent.
• Loop a towel over your knee, and slide it down so that is against your ankle.
• Continue to bend your knee, pulling your ankle gently toward you with the towel.
• Bend your knee as far as you can.
• Hold for 15 to 30 seconds, and then relax your leg.
• Do this 10 to 12 times or until your leg feels tired.

Adding resistance

About 4 to 6 weeks after surgery, you may be able to do the standing or assisted knee bends with light weights around your ankles. Begin with 1- to 2-pound weights, and slowly increase the weight as your knee and leg get stronger. Check with your doctor before you make any changes to your exercises.