Exercises After Surgery 0-4 Weeks - Total Knee Replacement

Physical Therapist Assistants Mike and Alex discuss what to expect 0-4 weeks following total knee replacement surgery. Together, they demonstrate exercises that can be done at home to begin working on increasing bending and straightening of the knee and low-level strengthening exercises.

Total Knee Replacement Exercises: 0–4 Weeks After Surgery

Recovering from a total knee replacement? This beginner exercise program is designed for the first 0–4 weeks after knee replacement surgery and focuses on improving knee range of motion, rebuilding strength, and restoring normal walking mechanics.

Mike and Alex demonstrate important early knee replacement exercises, including quad sets, heel slides, seated knee bending, knee extension stretches, straight leg raises, hip strengthening, gait training, and stair training. During this stage, improving your ability to fully bend and straighten your knee should be a top priority.

Perform the exercises 2–3 times per day as tolerated, and gradually increase repetitions and stretching time as your recovery progresses. Be sure to monitor swelling, pain, and possible signs of infection, and contact your healthcare provider with any concerns.

Watch the video above to see each exercise demonstrated and learn how to safely progress through the first four weeks of your total knee replacement recovery.

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