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Physical therapy for total knee replacement

 Physiotherapy exercises are crucial for individuals who have undergone total knee replacement surgery. These exercises help in regaining strength, flexibility, and mobility in the knee joint, as well as reducing pain and swelling. Here are some common physiotherapy exercises prescribed after total knee replacement:


1. Quadriceps Sets: 

  • Sit or lie down with your leg extended. 
  • Tighten the muscles on the front of your thigh by pushing the back of your knee down into the floor. 
  • Hold for a count of 5 to 10 seconds, then relax. 
  • Repeat 10 to 15 times, several times a day.


2. Straight Leg Raises: 

  • Lie on your back with one leg bent and the other straight. 
  • Lift your straight leg to the height of your bent knee, keeping your knee straight. 
  • Hold for 5 seconds, then slowly lower your leg. 
  • Start with 10 repetitions and gradually increase.


3. Heel Slides: 

  • Lie on your back with both legs straight. 
  • Slide your operated leg's heel toward your buttocks, bending your knee as far as possible without causing pain. 
  • Hold for a few seconds, then slowly straighten your knee. 
  • Repeat 10 to 15 times.


4. Leg Press: 

  • Sit on a chair with your feet flat on the floor. 
  • Slowly straighten and raise your operated leg, pressing the back of your knee towards the chair. 
  • Hold for a few seconds, then slowly lower your leg. 
  • Repeat 10 to 15 times.


5. Hamstring Curls: 

  • Stand behind a chair or use a countertop for balance. 
  • Bend your operated knee, bringing your heel toward your buttocks. 
  • Hold for a few seconds, then slowly lower your leg. 
  • Repeat 10 to 15 times.


6. Step-Ups: 

  • Stand in front of a step or stair with your feet shoulder-width apart. 
  • Step up onto the step with your operated leg, then step back down. 
  • Use the railing or a wall for balance if needed. Repeat 10 to 15 times.


7. Calf Raises: 

  • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold onto a stable surface for balance. 
  • Rise up onto your toes, lifting your heels off the floor. 
  • Hold for a few seconds, then slowly lower your heels back down. 
  • Repeat 10 to 15 times.


8. Ankle Pumps: 

  • Sit or lie down with your legs straight. 
  • Move your ankles up and down, flexing and extending your feet. Perform this exercise for a few minutes, several times a day, to improve circulation and prevent blood clots.


It's essential to perform these exercises regularly but gently, gradually increasing intensity and range of motion as advised by your physiotherapist. Always consult with your healthcare provider or physiotherapist before starting any new exercise program after knee replacement surgery.

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