Conditioning Before Knee Replacement

Low-impact exercise

Try exercise that doesn’t put too much weight on your knee, such as riding a stationary bike or swimming. This helps build strength in your knee with little stress on the joint. Start slowly. Then try to do a little more each day. Stop any exercise that causes increasing pain. You can also ask your healthcare provider or physical therapist about ways to manage any discomfort that occurs during exercise.

Pool exercise

Exercising in a pool is a gentle, low-impact way to exercise muscles. It can improve balance and coordination. A physical therapist may work with you in a pool therapy program. You can also try pool walking on your own. Stand in waist- to chest-deep water with your arms out to the sides. Slowly walk forward. To keep from overdoing, ask your physical therapist or surgeon for guidelines on how long to exercise. They can also give you tips on pool safety.

Note

 Speak with your healthcare provider if: 

• You have questions about the exercises

• You have more pain or swelling in your knee after exercise