Exercises Prior to Surgery - Total Knee Replacement

Total Knee Replacement Exercises Before Surgery: Pre-Op Knee Replacement Workout

Preparing for a total knee replacement before surgery can make a big difference in how ready your body is for recovery. In this video, physical therapist assistants Alex and Mike demonstrate simple pre-op knee replacement exercises designed to improve leg strength, knee range of motion, balance, and upper-body strength before surgery.

Ideally, begin your knee replacement pre-surgery exercise program at least six weeks before your procedure. If you are new to exercise or your arthritic knee is very painful, start slowly and choose movements you can perform comfortably. Low-impact options such as aquatic exercise may also be helpful when traditional exercise is difficult.

The program includes ankle pumps, quad sets, three-way hip strengthening, clamshells, short and long arc quads, knee bending and straightening exercises, chair push-ups, and single-leg balance. These exercises target the quadriceps, hips, knee mobility, arms, and balance—all areas that can play an important role in walking and completing everyday activities after a total knee replacement.

Alex and Mike recommend working toward about 15–20 minutes of exercise twice a day, but even one session—or just a few exercises—is better than doing nothing. Focus especially on maintaining or improving your knee's ability to bend and fully straighten before surgery.

Consistency is key. Choose a regular time each day to complete your exercises and modify or skip anything that significantly increases your pain. Always follow the recommendations and precautions provided by your surgeon or healthcare team.

Watch the video above to see Alex and Mike demonstrate each pre-op total knee replacement exercise and explain proper technique, repetitions, modifications, and safety tips. You can also use the accompanying printable program as a convenient guide while preparing for knee replacement surgery.