Guidelines to Achieve Maximal Knee Extension (Straightening) Range of Motion - Total Knee Replacement

How to Improve Knee Extension After Total Knee Replacement

Regaining knee extension, or knee straightening, after total knee replacement surgery is an important part of recovery. The goal is to restore as much straightening as possible, ideally reaching 0 degrees when appropriate.

Pain and swelling can limit knee motion, so use strategies such as icing, elevation, deep breathing, and pain medication as directed by your healthcare provider.

Exercises progress throughout recovery and may include heel-prop stretches, quad sets, seated knee extension stretches, standing terminal knee extensions, hamstring stretches, and practicing a heel-first walking pattern.

Avoid keeping your knee bent for long periods, and place support under your heel or lower leg rather than directly under the knee.

Watch the video above as Alex and Mike demonstrate knee straightening exercises and explain how to progress them after total knee replacement surgery.