Knee Replacement Exercises to Avoid Guide

Knee replacement surgery is a common procedure designed to restore knee function and reduce pain. However, it is crucial to be aware of the exercises and movements to avoid during the recovery process. By following the advice of your surgeon and physical therapist, you can ensure a safe and successful recovery.

Key Takeaways:

• Avoid activities with a high risk of falling, such as walking on slippery terrain and not using handrails on stairs.
• Limit prolonged sitting to reduce the risk of blood clots and swelling.
• Avoid excessive weight-bearing in the early stages of recovery and use assistive devices if necessary.
• Avoid running, jumping, and high-impact activities that can delay healing and potentially damage the knee prosthesis.
• Avoid sports that involve high impact or sudden changes in direction, and opt for low-impact activities instead.

Activities with a High Risk of Falling

After undergoing knee replacement surgery, it is important to be aware of activities that increase the risk of falling. Factors such as loss of strength, reduced range of motion, and impaired balance can make individuals more susceptible to accidents. By avoiding certain activities, we can reduce the risk of falls and minimize potential damage to the knee prosthesis.

Here are some key activities to avoid:

1. Walking on slippery terrain: Walking on wet or icy surfaces can be dangerous, as it increases the risk of slipping and falling. It is advisable to avoid such surfaces until fully confident in your balance and stability.
2. Not using handrails when going up and down stairs: Stairs can be challenging after knee replacement surgery, especially during the initial recovery phase. Always use handrails for support while going up and down stairs to prevent falls.
3. Not removing tripping hazards from the floor: Clearing the floor of any potential tripping hazards, such as loose rugs, wires, or clutter, can significantly reduce the risk of accidental falls.

By following these recommendations and taking necessary precautions, we can help ensure a safer and more successful recovery following knee replacement surgery.

Activities to Avoid	Reason
Walking on slippery terrain	Increases the risk of slipping and falling, potentially causing injury to the knee prosthesis
Not using handrails when going up and down stairs	Can lead to loss of balance and falls, posing a threat to knee stability and recovery
Not removing tripping hazards from the floor	Potential tripping hazards increase the chances of accidental falls and knee injuries

Prolonged Sitting

Prolonged sitting after knee replacement surgery can increase the risk of developing blood clots and worsen swelling in the lower leg. It is essential to be mindful of your sitting habits during the recovery period to promote healing and prevent complications.

• Limit sitting to 45-60 minutes at a time in the first 7 to 10 days after surgery.
• If prolonged sitting is necessary, try to elevate your leg on a chair or ottoman to help reduce swelling.

Reducing swelling after knee replacement surgery is crucial for a smooth recovery. Elevating the leg helps improve blood circulation and reduce fluid buildup, preventing excessive swelling and discomfort.

“It is recommended to limit sitting to 45-60 minutes at a time in the first 7 to 10 days after knee replacement surgery.”

Swelling Management Tips:

1. Elevate your leg above heart level whenever possible to minimize swelling. This can be done by propping your leg up with pillows or using a leg rest.
2. Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Be sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to protect your skin from direct contact and avoid excessive cold exposure.
3. Follow your surgeon’s recommendations regarding the use of compression stockings or wraps to help control swelling.
4. Engage in gentle ankle and foot movements to promote blood circulation and reduce swelling. These exercises should be performed as advised by your physical therapist.

By following these precautions and incorporating specific swelling management techniques into your daily routine, you can support your recovery and minimize swelling after knee replacement surgery.

Exercise	Risks
Avoiding prolonged sitting	Increased risk of blood clots and worsened swelling in the lower leg.
Elevating the leg	Reduced swelling and improved blood circulation.
Swelling management techniques	Minimized swelling, enhanced recovery.

Too Much Weight-Bearing Shortly After Surgery

While early weight-bearing and getting out of bed is encouraged after knee replacement surgery, it is important to avoid excessive weight-bearing in the early stages of recovery. Putting too much pressure on the newly replaced knee joint can hinder the healing process and potentially damage the implant.

Following weight-bearing restrictions after knee replacement surgery is crucial to ensure a successful recovery. Your surgeon or physical therapist will provide specific guidelines based on your individual situation, but here are some general recommendations:

1. Use assistive devices: During the initial stages of recovery, using walkers, crutches, or canes can provide support and stability while helping to distribute your weight evenly. These devices can reduce the load on your knee joint, allowing it to heal properly.
2. Avoid excessive walking: While it’s important to start moving and engaging in light activity after surgery, be mindful not to overdo it. Gradually increase your walking distance and duration under the guidance of your healthcare team to avoid straining the joint.
3. Take breaks: Allow yourself frequent breaks during walking or standing activities to prevent excessive weight-bearing. Sit down, elevate your leg, and rest to give your knee joint time to recover.
4. Stair use: When it comes to stairs, remember the rule of “the good go up, the bad go down.” Ascending stairs puts less stress on the knee joint, so going up is generally better tolerated. Take one step at a time, leading with your non-operated leg. Avoid going down stairs until you have been cleared by your surgeon or physical therapist.

By following these weight-bearing restrictions and gradually increasing your activity level, you can promote a safe and effective recovery after knee replacement surgery. Always consult with your healthcare team for personalized recommendations based on your specific condition.

Exercise	Weight-Bearing Category	Recommended Timing
Walking	Partial weight-bearing	Start as directed by surgeon or physical therapist, with gradual progress
Squatting	Avoid	Avoid for several weeks or as directed by surgeon or physical therapist
Running	Avoid	Avoid for at least 3-6 months, or as advised by your surgeon
Jumping	Avoid	Avoid for at least 3-6 months, or as advised by your surgeon
Bicycling	Non-weight-bearing	Start as directed by surgeon or physical therapist, with gradual progress

Note: The table above provides general guidelines and may vary depending on individual circumstances. Always consult with your healthcare team for personalized recommendations.

Running and Jumping

Running and jumping can have a significant impact on the knee joint, and it is important to avoid these activities after knee replacement surgery. Engaging in running and jumping too soon can delay the healing process and potentially lead to damage to the knee prosthesis. Even after a full recovery, surgeons generally discourage high-impact activities to protect the longevity of the knee replacement.

Impact Sports to Avoid After Knee Replacement	High-Impact Activities to Avoid After Knee Replacement Surgery
Basketball	Running
Football	Jumping
Soccer	Aerobics
Tennis	Skipping

If you enjoy sports or activities that involve running and jumping, it is important to discuss alternative exercises with your healthcare provider or physical therapist. They can recommend low-impact alternatives that promote movement and strength without putting excessive strain on the knee joint.

Sports with High Impact or Quickly Changing Directions

Contact sports and sports that involve sudden twisting or jerking of the knee should be avoided during the recovery period after knee replacement surgery. These sports can put excessive strain and stress on the prosthetic joint, potentially leading to complications and compromised healing. It is crucial to protect the new knee and minimize the risk of injury.

Examples of Sports to Avoid:

• Soccer
• Football
• Rugby
• Skiing
• Basketball
• Hockey
• Gymnastics

Engaging in these high-impact activities too soon after knee replacement surgery can delay healing and potentially damage the prosthesis. It is important to prioritize long-term joint health and follow the guidance of your surgeon and physical therapist regarding when it is safe to resume sports and activities with high impact or quickly changing directions.

Instead of contact sports or high-impact activities, consider opting for low-impact alternatives that promote cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength without excessive stress on the knee joint. Cycling, golf, swimming, and water aerobics are examples of safer options for staying active and maintaining overall fitness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to your knee replacement surgery recovery, it is crucial to prioritize your safety and follow the recommendations provided by your healthcare provider and physical therapist. By avoiding certain exercises and activities, you can minimize the risk of complications and ensure a successful rehabilitation process.

Remember to stay active during your recovery journey, but be mindful of exercises to avoid after knee replacement surgery. This includes activities with a high risk of falling, prolonged sitting, excessive weight-bearing, running and jumping, and sports with high impact or sudden changes in direction.

By understanding and adhering to these guidelines, you can protect your knee health, reduce the chances of further injury, and promote proper healing. Always consult with your healthcare team for personalized advice and guidance, and never hesitate to ask questions or express concerns throughout your knee replacement recovery.

FAQ

What exercises should I avoid after knee replacement surgery?

It is important to avoid activities with a high risk of falling, prolonged sitting, excessive weight-bearing, running and jumping, sports with high impact or sudden changes in direction, and kneeling.

What activities have a high risk of falling after knee replacement surgery?

Walking on slippery terrain, not using handrails when going up and down stairs, and not removing tripping hazards from the floor should be avoided to reduce the risk of falling.

Why should I avoid prolonged sitting after knee replacement surgery?

Prolonged sitting can increase the risk of developing blood clots and worsen swelling in the lower leg. It is recommended to limit sitting to 45-60 minutes at a time and elevate the leg on a chair or ottoman to reduce swelling.

Can I put weight on my knee immediately after surgery?

Early weight-bearing and getting out of bed is encouraged after knee replacement surgery. However, excessive weight-bearing should be avoided in the early stages of recovery. Assistive devices like walkers or crutches can help with mobility, and stairs should be avoided until cleared by your surgeon or physical therapist.

Can I run or jump after knee replacement surgery?

Running and jumping put significant stress on the knee joint and can delay healing and potentially damage the prosthesis. Surgeons generally discourage high-impact activities even after a full recovery.

Can I participate in contact sports or sports with sudden changes in direction after knee replacement surgery?

Contact sports and sports that involve sudden twisting or jerking of the knee should be avoided during the recovery period. Examples of sports to avoid include soccer, football, rugby, skiing, basketball, hockey, and gymnastics. Low-impact activities such as cycling, golf, and swimming are safer options for staying active.

What should I do to ensure a safe and successful recovery after knee replacement surgery?

It is important to follow the guidance of your healthcare provider and physical therapist. By understanding and avoiding exercises that could cause complications, you can promote a successful recovery after knee replacement surgery and ensure the longevity of your knee health.

Source Links

• https://www.orthobethesda.com/blog/what-to-avoid-after-knee-replacement/
• https://www.healthline.com/health/what-not-to-do-after-knee-replacement
• https://practiceplusgroup.com/knowledge-hub/how-stay-fit-after-knee-surgery/