Knee prosthesis Rehabilitation
Knee replacement surgery is a surgery that involves replacing the damaged joint with an artificial joint in individuals whose knee joint has been damaged for certain reasons. Knee prosthesis is applied to relieve pain and movement limitations that do not respond to non-operative treatments, to provide stability and to improve quality of life.
Pre-operative rehabilitation for knee prosthesis
It is important to start rehabilitation before the operation in order to increase the success of the knee replacement operation. Beginning rehabilitation in the pre-operative period facilitates post-operative rehabilitation, accelerates the recovery of the patient and gains independence in daily life activities. For this;
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Teaching proper knee positioning
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Reducing joint range of motion limitations,
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Strengthening exercises especially for the anterior thigh muscles
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Stretching exercises for shortened or strained muscles
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Teaching post-operative rehabilitation program
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It is important to teach breathing exercises and coughing method in order to prevent lung complications and to eliminate secretion.
Rehabilitation after knee replacement surgery
The goals of post-operative rehabilitation are;
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To prevent the negative effects of bed rest
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To gain adequate and functional range of motion of the joint
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Strengthening the muscles around the knee
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Ensuring independence in walking and activities of daily living
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To improve the patient's quality of life.
Basic rules in knee rehabilitation:
1. Bone-ligament stability is a prerequisite for optimal knee functions.
2. The rehabilitation program after surgery should be started early.
3. During the rehabilitation program, unassisted and full weight-bearing should not be allowed unless a near-normal range of motion (ROM), gait pattern, and cadence are achieved.
4. The development of reflex inhibition in extensor or flexor mechanisms should be recognized early and combated with appropriate modalities. 5. Operated and non-operated extremities should be strengthened together.
