Post-Surgery Tips for a Speedy Recovery by Dr. Anoop Jhurani

Recovering from knee surgery requires dedication to a proper rehabilitation routine. The right exercises can make a significant difference in your recovery process, helping you regain strength, mobility, and function. Dr. Anoop Jhurani, a leading expert in robotic knee replacement surgery in Jaipur, India, offers post-surgery exercise suggestions to help you return to your daily routine.

1.       Quadriceps Set

Purpose: Strengthens the quadriceps muscle, which is essential for knee stability.

How to do it:

-          Sit or lie down with your leg straight.

-          Tighten the muscle at the front of your thigh.

-          Hold the contraction for 5-10 seconds.

-          Release and relax.

-          Repeat 10-15 times for each leg.

2.       Straight Leg Raise (SLR)

Purpose: Build strength in the quadriceps without bending the knee.

How to do it:

-          Lie on your back with one leg bent and the other straight.

-          Tighten the thigh muscle of the straight leg.

-          Lift the straight leg about 6 inches off the ground.

-          Hold for a few seconds and then slowly lower it back down.

-          Repeat 10-15 times for each leg.

3.       Active Range of Motion (AROM)

Purpose: Enhances joint mobility and flexibility.

How to do it:

-          Sit on a chair or lie on your back.

-          Bend and straighten your knee as much as you can within a pain-free range.

-          Perform this movement slowly and steadily.

-          Repeat 10-15 times for each leg.

4.       Active Assisted Range of Motion (AAROM)

Purpose: Improves knee movement with the help of your hands or a towel.

How to do it:

-          Sit on a chair or lie on your back.

-          Use your hands or a towel wrapped around your foot to assist in bending and straightening your knee.

-          Move within a comfortable range, gradually increasing the bend over time.

-          Repeat 10-15 times for each leg.

5.        Active Knee Extension

Purpose: Strengthens the quadriceps and improves knee extension.

How to do it:

-          Sit on a chair with your feet flat on the floor.

-          Slowly extend one leg out straight, keeping your thigh on the chair.

-          Hold the position for a few seconds, then slowly lower your leg back down.

-          Repeat 10-15 times for each leg.

6.       Walking

Purpose: Encourages natural movement and improves overall leg strength.

How to do it:

-          Begin walking with a walker or crutches as recommended by your physical therapist.

-          Gradually increase the distance and time you spend walking each day.

-          Ensure you walk with an upright posture and a natural gait.

7.       Stationary Cycling (Without Resistance)

Purpose: Enhances knee mobility and cardiovascular fitness without putting undue stress on the joint.

How to do it:

-          Set up a stationary bike with low or no resistance.

-          Pedal slowly and steadily for 5-10 minutes.

-          Gradually increase the duration as your knee becomes more comfortable with the movement.

Dr. Anoop Jhurani, a leading orthopedic surgeon specializing in robotic knee replacement in Jaipur, emphasizes the importance of a structured and consistent rehabilitation program. By incorporating these exercises into your daily routine and following medical advice, you can successfully recover and return to your normal activities with improved mobility and reduced pain.