Undergoing total knee replacement can be life-changing for those suffering from chronic pain and limited mobility. However, the surgery is just the first step toward full recovery. What happens after the procedure plays a crucial role in how successful your outcome will be—and that includes exercising regularly.

If you’ve chosen total knee replacement in Islamabad, your medical team will likely provide a rehabilitation plan tailored to your needs. But understanding which exercises help rebuild strength, restore motion, and prevent complications is key to a smooth and complete recovery.

Why Exercise Matters After Knee Replacement:

Post-surgical exercises are designed to:

• Improve joint flexibility.

• Strengthen leg muscles.

• Reduce swelling and stiffness.

• Promote blood circulation to prevent blood clots.

• Help you return to daily activities safely.

Without a consistent rehab routine, the knee joint can become stiff, weak, and difficult to move—affecting the success of your surgery.

Let’s look at the most effective exercises you can expect to perform after total knee replacement surgery.

Top Exercises to Aid Knee Recovery:

These exercises are typically divided into early recovery and later-stage routines. Always consult with your physiotherapist or surgeon before starting any activity.

1. Ankle Pumps and Circles (Day 1 Onwards):

Purpose: Improve blood flow and reduce the risk of clots.

How to do it:

• While lying on your back, move your foot up and down like pressing on a gas pedal.

• Rotate your ankle slowly in circles.

• Repeat for 2–3 minutes, several times a day.

2. Quad Sets (Week 1):

Purpose: Strengthen the thigh muscle without bending the knee.

How to do it:

• Sit or lie down with your leg straight.

• Tighten the thigh muscle and push the back of your knee downward.

• Hold for 5 seconds, relax, and repeat 10–15 times.

3. Heel Slides (Week 1–2):

Purpose: Improve range of motion in the knee.

How to do it:

• Lie on your back and bend your operated knee by sliding your heel toward your buttocks.

• Hold for a few seconds and slowly straighten your leg again.

• Repeat 10–15 times, 3 sessions per day.

4. Straight Leg Raises (Week 2–3):

Purpose: Strengthen the quadriceps and improve control over the leg.

How to do it:

• Lie on your back with one leg bent and the operated leg straight.

• Lift the straight leg to the height of the bent one and slowly lower it back.

• Repeat 10 times.

5. Seated Knee Bends (Week 3–4):

Purpose: Increase knee flexion and improve range of motion.

How to do it:

• Sit on a chair with feet flat on the ground.

• Slowly slide your foot back to bend the knee as far as comfortable.

• Hold the position for a few seconds, then return to the starting point.

• Repeat 10–15 times.

6. Standing Knee Bends:

Purpose: Increase both strength and flexibility.

How to do it:

• Stand behind a chair or near a support bar.

• Gently bend your operated knee as far as you can, then slowly lower it.

• Do 2 sets of 10 repetitions daily.

7. Stationary Cycling and Walking (Week 6 and Beyond):

Purpose: Build endurance and promote a natural gait.

Tips:

• Begin with short, slow walks around the house.

• Introduce a stationary bike with minimal resistance under guidance.

• Increase duration gradually based on your therapist’s advice.

Stick to a Schedule:

Consistency is key. Your physical therapist will likely recommend performing certain exercises multiple times a day, gradually progressing to more complex movements over several weeks. You should:

• Avoid skipping sessions.

• Track your improvement.

• Listen to your body and avoid pushing through sharp pain.

Even months after surgery, continuing with stretching and low-impact activities like swimming or cycling will help keep your new knee strong and functional.

Why Choose Total Knee Replacement in Islamabad?

Choosing total knee replacement in Islamabad means getting access to some of the country’s top orthopedic professionals and modern rehabilitation facilities. With personalized physiotherapy programs and expert monitoring, patients in Islamabad often experience faster and more effective recoveries.

Whether you’re a resident or traveling for care, you’ll find advanced surgical techniques, compassionate post-op support, and dedicated therapists to guide your recovery every step of the way.

Get Back to Living Pain-Free:

Exercises after knee replacement may feel challenging at first, but every stretch and lift brings you closer to walking, climbing, and moving with ease again. By following your rehab plan diligently and maintaining a positive mindset, you’ll regain strength and independence faster than you imagined.

With expert care and a commitment to recovery, your journey toward a pain-free, mobile life begins now—especially when you trust your health to a proven provider of total knee replacement in Islamabad.

For more information visit Royal Cosmetic Suregry.