Physical Therapy Exercises After Knee Surgery

The early programme may include ankle movement to keep the lower leg active, gentle knee bends within the allowed range, thigh-muscle tightening and supported straight-leg work when appropriate. As healing permits, therapy can progress to sit-to-stand practice, step training, controlled squats, resistance work and balance tasks. The correct sequence depends on the procedure, the tissue repaired, wound healing, pain, swelling and the surgeon's weight-bearing instructions.

Use the exact technique and repetitions taught by your physiotherapist, keeping the movement controlled rather than fast. A temporary increase in effort can occur, but worsening swelling, sharp pain or a change in walking quality means the session may be too demanding. Elevate or cool the knee only as your team recommends, and do not place a pillow directly behind the knee for long periods unless instructed. Progress one challenge at a time.

Call the surgical team about increasing wound redness, drainage, fever, severe pain, or swelling that is becoming more pronounced. Get urgent help for sudden breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, or a painful swollen calf. A new fall, inability to bear the permitted weight, a locked knee or sudden loss of movement warrants prompt advice before you continue exercising.

Ask which exercises are suitable for your operation, how to judge an acceptable response, and when to advance bending or resistance. Confirm weight-bearing limits, walking-aid use, wound precautions and the signs that should pause home practice.