Rehabilitation From Unicondylar Knee Replacement

Physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) are an integral part of your post-operative care at NYPH and after you return home. You will receive a visit from you physical therapist on the first post-operative day.

Your daily therapy sessions

You will be seen by a PT/OT on the day after surgery. Your therapists will instruct you in your exercise program, which is directed toward improving your functional mobility by increasing the range of motion and strength of your legs.

For the first few days after surgery, some patients benefit from taking pain medication 30-45 minutes prior to their therapy session. You should discuss this with your nurse and/or therapist.

Beginning to walk

Your therapist will help you in sitting up with your feet over the bedside (we call it dangling). You will then stand with the use of a walker and the continued help of your therapist. As soon as possible, you will be allowed to bear full weight on the operative leg, and, then, will try walking.

As the days progress, you will increase, the distance. Many patients progress to a straight cane within a few weeks after surgery.

Stair Climbing

You will practice stair climbing (if appropriate) several times prior to discharge.

Looking Ahead

Before leaving, you will be instructed in an exercise program for home.

Remember, you make the difference

It is extremely important that you understand that your motivation and your participation in your therapy program is a vital element in the speed and success of your long-range rehabilitation, as well as getting ready to go home.

Other examples of your exercise program may include the following:

Knee Straightening Exercises

Place a small rolled towel just above your heel so that it is not touching the bed. Tighten your thigh. Try to fully straighten your knee and to touch the back of your knee to the bed. Hold fully straightened for five to 10 seconds. Repeat until your thigh feels fatigued.

Bed-Supported Knee Bends

Bend your knee as much as possible while sliding your foot on the bed. Hold your knee in a maximally bent position for 5 to 10 seconds and then straighten. Repeat several times until your leg feels fatigued or until you can completely bend your knee.

Sitting Supported Knee Bends

While sitting at bedside or in a chair with your thigh supported, place your foot behind the heel of your operated knee for support. Slowly bend your knee as far as you can. Hold your knee in this position for 5 to 10 seconds. Repeat several times until your leg feels fatigued or until you can completely bend your knee.

Sitting Unsupported Knee Bends

While sitting at bedside or in a chair with your thigh supported, bend or straighten your knee as far as you can until your foot rests on the floor. With your foot lightly resting on the floor, slide your upper body forward in the chair to increase your knee bend. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds.
Straighten your knee fully. Repeat several times until your leg feels fatigued or until you can completely bend or straighten your knee.

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