Author: Apatsa Wa Basiteni

Initial Post Op Phase – First 2 Weeks Aim The aim of this phase is to regain the range of joint movement and to allow swelling in the knee to settle. The most important aim is to regain normal and full extension (straightening) of the knee. After seeing the physiotherapist on the ward the next…

Preoperative Preparation And Operative Period Pre Op Rehabilitation begins before surgery in the pre-operative phase to ensure that the individual and their knee are ready for the operation. Ensure full range of movement, especially normal hyperextension, i.e. so the knee extends to the same as the other leg. Exercises to maintain quadriceps and hamstring muscle…

There are six main rehabilitation phases and example exercises for each phase are given in the sections that follow. Many different exercises are available to achieve the goals and these are tailored to each individual by the physiotherapy team. Various example exercises are outlined in each section. Phase 1: Preoperative preparation/operative period. Phase 2: Initial…

Exercises need to be done 4 – 5 times per day: little and often is better than an extensive overload period. Pain, heat and increasing swelling in the knee are potentially bad: Any of these symptoms can mean that exercises are being overdone. This is unlikely to indicate a serious problem, but these symptoms should…

The overall rehabilitation plan emphasises the importance of pre-operative exercises followed post operatively by early control of swelling and regaining full extension (straightening) and flexing of the knee (bending). Working on strength can only start once swelling and range of movement have been controlled. Return to function then follows. Key to Success The key to…