Knee replacement is a major surgery, and everyone wants to be back on their feet and recovered as quickly as possible. Having made the difficult decision to undergo this procedure, you should do all you can to lessen the impact on your body. A major part of this involves conditioning the area prior to surgery. Studies have shown that patients who prepare prior to knee replacement surgery by exercising reduce the chances of requiring inpatient rehabilitation and enjoy greater mobility upon leaving the hospital.
What is Knee Replacement?
During a total knee replacement, diseased or damaged parts of the knee joint are replaced with artificial substitutes. The lower end of the femur is removed and replaced with a metal cap. The upper end of the tibia is removed and replaced with a plastic piece with a metal stem. If needed, a plastic button can be placed below the surface of the patella. Also if needed, the posterior cruciate ligament can be replaced with a polyethylene post.
Benefits of Pre-Surgery Exercise
A study led by Daniel S. Rooks of New England Baptist Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School in Boston from 2001 to 2003 examined whether patients saw benefits from an exercise regimen performed for three weeks prior to knee or hip replacement surgery. This study was particularly geared toward arthritic patients as opposed to those suffering from sports or other industries. Participants in the study group performed aerobic, strength training and flexibility exercises under the supervision of a physical therapist. They were then evaluated pre- and post-surgery for muscle strength, balance and mobility.
The study found that those who followed the exercise regimen prior to surgery were 73 percent less likely to be assigned to an inpatient rehabilitation facility during recovery. The study also concluded that a higher percentage of patients who had exercised in the weeks leading up to surgery were able to walk more than 50 feet upon being discharged from the hospital.
Exercise Recommendations
While exercise to strengthen the area surrounding the knee is important, you must also take care not to further exacerbate the problem area.
Water exercises take pressure off the knee during exercise, while providing the resistance necessary for strength training or aerobic exercise.
Resistance bands are another option which provide a light, smooth resistance which can be stronger than the natural resistance provided by water. If your doctor allows, this can be used for further strengthening exercises.
Only train with free weights or machines if cleared by your doctor to do so, as these provide the greatest risk of further injury or irritation.
Remember to work with your doctors and therapists early to construct an exercise program that works with your unique condition. Doctors conducting the New England study recommended starting an exercise regimen at least six weeks prior to surgery.
Tags: replaced with, exercise regimen, prior surgery, inpatient rehabilitation, knee replacement