Best Exercises Before Knee Replacement Surgery

Many patients assume that because their knee is being replaced, there is no point in exercising it beforehand. In reality, the stronger your leg muscles are going into surgery, the faster and easier your recovery will be. This concept is called “Pre-habilitation” (Pre-hab).

Here are safe, low-impact exercises you should perform daily leading up to your robotic knee arthroplasty:

1. Quad Sets

The quadriceps (thigh muscle) is the most important muscle for walking and climbing stairs.

• How: Lie on your back with your legs straight. Tighten the muscle on the front of your thigh, pushing the back of your knee flat down into the bed.
• Duration: Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10-15 times per leg.

2. Straight Leg Raises

This builds quad strength without putting weight or pressure on the arthritic joint.

• How: Lie on your back. Bend your good knee, keeping that foot flat on the bed. Keep your arthritic leg perfectly straight, tighten the thigh muscle, and lift the straight leg about 12 inches off the bed.
• Duration: Hold for 3 seconds, lower slowly. Repeat 10 times.

3. Ankle Pumps

Crucial for blood circulation and preventing blood clots.

• How: While lying down or sitting, slowly pump your feet up and down as if pressing and releasing a gas pedal.
• Duration: Do this for 2-3 minutes, several times a day.

4. Heel Slides

This helps maintain your knee’s range of motion, which is vital for a successful outcome.

• How: Lie on your back. Slide your heel toward your buttocks, bending your knee as far as is comfortably possible.
• Duration: Hold the bend for 5 seconds, then slowly slide the leg back straight. Repeat 10 times.

Caution: These exercises should cause muscle fatigue, but not sharp joint pain. Always consult with the Precision Orthopaedics board before starting a new exercise regimen prior to surgery.