What range of motion should I be getting after my knee replacement? (2024)

FAQs

What range of motion should I be getting after my knee replacement? ›

Weeks 2-3: the goal is to achieve at least 100° knee flexion and full knee extension. Weeks 4-6: you should be approaching or have already achieved 110-120° of full knee flexion. Weeks 6+: the goal is to focus on strengthening the lower extremity muscles with functional range of motion at the knee joint.

If you achieve 90 degrees by one week, and continue to push forward after this, you will end up with excellent range of motion of your knee replacement. Most of our patients end up with 120 to 125 degrees of flexion. Make sure that you know how much flexibility you have in your knee.

Range of motion (ROM) is the most important outcome that defines the functional ability after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). A minimum range of knee flexion of 90° is essential to daily activities with about 67° required in swing phase, 83° in climbing stairs, 90° in descending stairs, and 93° in rising from a chair.

Make sure not to force your new knee into a position that causes you pain or discomfort. Lie on your stomach, with your legs straight. Bend 1 leg, lifting the heel toward your buttocks (bum). Slowly lower your leg to the starting position.

The results indicate gait and slopes require less than 90 degrees of knee flexion, stairs and chairs 90-120 degrees of flexion and a bath approximately 135 degrees of flexion. The data suggests that 110 degrees of flexion would seem a suitable goal for the rehabilitation of motion in the knee.

For example, one study determined a normal knee should ideally be able to flex, or bend, to between 133 and 153 degrees. And a normal knee should also be able to extend so that it's completely straight. A reduction in a normal range of motion in any of the joints is known as limited range of motion.

In most cases, patients can walk without help from assistive devices like crutches or a walker within six weeks after knee replacement surgery. That said, physical therapy continues after this time to help your knee and the surrounding muscles grow stronger and more flexible.

One of the most effective ways to combat stiffness is through early mobilization and structured physical therapy. Engaging in range-of-motion exercises helps prevent scar tissue formation, enhances joint flexibility, and reduces stiffness.

Squat as low as you can comfortably, bringing your butt towards your heels. To progress, you can perform a heel elevated squat. Prop your heels on an elevated surface, and squat down, trying to move the knee into as much flexion as comfortable. For either of these, perform for 6-10 repetitions, as needed.

What is the hardest part of knee replacement recovery? ›

The most significant pain occurs while the knee is inflamed and recovering from the acute inflammation after the surgery. The first six weeks are the toughest. Of that six weeks, the first week is the hardest.

Postoperative stiffness after a TKR surgery can occur due to a number of causes; hence it is important to speak to your surgeon if you are experiencing stiffness and a limited range of motion for more than 6 months post-surgery.

In the first few weeks, you will probably need to ice your knee 3-4 times per day; after about 1 month, it may be only at night; after 2 months, it may only be after physical therapy sessions. As the healing progresses and your knee gets stronger, your swelling will diminish.

End of week 1: the goal is to reach at least 90° of knee flexion and be working towards full knee extension. Weeks 2-3: the goal is to achieve at least 100° knee flexion and full knee extension. Weeks 4-6: you should be approaching or have already achieved 110-120° of full knee flexion.

Supporting muscles and soft tissue can begin to atrophy due to nonuse and swelling. Increased strain can be put on the knee from improper movement. Range of motion can be diminished. The healing process can be slowed down due to lack of blood flow to the area.

This condition can be caused by a number of reasons including: running or walking, kneecap being too high in the joint, weak thigh muscles, tight hamstrings, tight Achilles tendons, injury or overuse. This condition can be diagnosed by a physical exam. Treatments can vary depending on your age, health and pain level.

Four to six weeks after surgery: Within four to six weeks of your surgery, you will likely be able to walk 10 minutes or more at a time without a walker, cane, crutches or other assistive device. Your physical therapist will encourage you to walk longer distances without an assistive device.

It is common for 2 weeks to 3 months following the surgery. This stiffness reduces as your knee gets adjusted to the implants. As you start with your daily routine activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and getting up from a chair, you will see that the stiffness reduces and your mobility improves.

How long does it take to recover from a knee replacement? It usually takes around a year to recover fully after a knee replacement. But you should be able to resume most of your usual activities six weeks after surgery.