The best knee extension range of motion exercise is the heel prop. Lay on your couch, put your heel on the arm rest and lay there for 10-15 minutes at least 4 times a day. No need to activate your quad during this exercise. Just let gravity stretch it. I am a PT. Hope it helps.
Had a revision total knee replacement 7 months ago. The knee doesnt stretch and doesnt bend to 90 degrees unless forced. I feel alot of pain when forced to 90 degrees. Im usually in pain and use both clutches for my movement. What do i do?
@@tabbywanjiro9598I sure hope you won’t be in pain 24/7 three years post op like me. 10 months of PT, hypnosis, electrical stimulation, massage, hydrotherapy you name it. WORST surgery ever !
I had both knees replaced last year. I worked really hard at range of motion. I sat in a warm bath and really benefitted by bending and straightening my knees. Today, 15 months on I have the best bend. I can actually bend my knee to the point where I am almost touching my buttocks with my heels. I'm thrilled.
@@sallieearle5346 I have had both knees replaced. I got back the full range of motion. 135+. I stretch the hamstring and calf muscles. One stretch that I found for me that works is back to the wall bring the foot up as high as you can on the wall. Then lean back and move like you are going to sit on your heel.
Unless these drs.have actually had this God awful surgery they have no freaking clue how tremendously painful this is!!!Ive never had pain so intense that made me instantly vomit -its all consuming and a nightmare!! How the hell do you push past that kind of pain??!!
I'm so glad to hear you say this. I thought I was the only one who felt this way. I think every one of these Dr's should have to have this surgery. Listen to this fool push through, he's young healthy speaking about some things he has never experienced. What a foooool .....
I've had TWO knee replacements this year and no way were my knees even close to bending at these degrees within these timeframes 😳 & that was with physical therapy 2-3 times a week. Did I get there eventually ...YES, but for sure it took time. Please don't be discouraged if you're not at these markers just keep going to physical therapy & exercising...everybody is different.
My knee would straighten almost all the way and bend over 90 by the day after surgery. Two weeks later I was at 110 when the VA had finally got me into therapy in the Community I live in. So for two weeks all my therapy was 100 percent on me! I never babied it though even the two days I was in the VA hospital. I’m 5 weeks out as of today with no swelling and no pain at all the last two days. And I haven’t iced it the last two days because I don’t want to ice it when there’s no swelling or pain.
@@dougkahler7152 wow Doug, that's really impressive!! I guess my knees were just so old and tired by the time I had my surgeries they just said NO lol but I'm good as new now so it looks like I still accomplished what needed to be done 😊
I had bilateral total knee replacement 8 weeks ago and everything said here is spot on, I had good range of motion before surgery and after it was easier to get range of motion but I had to work at it, I went through the sleepless nights the first 3 weeks but as I exercised more I eventually started to get better and better sleep, I’m pretty much back to normal and getting around great, but each person is different however doing the work really does make a big difference.
This guy knows his stuff. I just listened to this guy today. I did 5 sets of both exercises. I beginning week 4 tomorrow and I expect big increases when they measure my numbers tomorrow. I feel more movement after just the one day of exercises. It hurts but if it gets me “cured” quicker that’s OK.
I’m on week 8 and my bend is nowhere near this timeline. I go to PT three times a week and work hard. Take these timelines with a grain of salt. It can make you feel like a total failure if you compare yourself to some guideline. I find that it’s a very personal journey and has a huge emotional component. Talk to your PT, if he’s satisfied then continue on your journey. You’ll get there.
I'm on week 13 and I was where you are at that point. Take your pain meds and force yourself to do the exercises multiple times a day not just with the PT. When you are watching tv you can do some of them if not all of them and the distraction will help you get through it. I thought I was hitting a wall on progression but it was the edema and I've just finally got rid of most of my edema which hindered me. Don't give up. It's worth it to be better.
I could not agree with you more about this timeline! It’s almost as abrasive and insistent of a theory that everyone should be at this point however, he does not stress at all the possibility of those of us who have issues in pain or reflex guarding of the quad, which doesn’t allow the need to bend… There are so many variables with each person… For the first week following surgery I was so nauseated From the anesthesia that I could barely get out of bed to go to the bathroom but I did of course… The next week I started therapy and was only at 40… And I’ve only reached 60 now at four weeks… But I will not be discouraged because of this timeline! I’m a professional dancer and I know discipline… I want this knee back like you wouldn’t believe I’m 67 years old… I did the surgery because I had arthritis but I’m not going to be discouraged by this video which I don’t feel is very encouraging at all!
This is definitely not for everybody right out of the gate. I was on OxyContin, and the pain was so excruciating I couldn’t even stand up without passing out for six days until they took me off the OxyContin so my physical therapy digressed but there was absolutely no way in that first week. I was going to be able to get on a bicycle and do a full rotation. The 90° after surgery is because you have a full block and that’s the only reason you can drive home in a regular car but after that it doesn’t stay at 90° you have to work back to that.
I had to advocate for myself. pain meds make me so sick i requested oral zofran and it kept me from puking my guts out--I did get sick a few times, got a spinal headache and also had vertigo--and I'm only 2.5 weeks post op. I went in with a locked knee at about 14% and flexion at maybe 95% and at this point, with 6 PT visits under my belt and me doing a lot on my own, I have ZERO extension (first time in almost 2 years) and 95% flexion. It's been a rough haul for sure-I have 38 staples, LONG incision. I worked with a personal trainer before surgery and she taught me how to work out and put me on a nutrition plan and I lost 86 lbs in a little over a year's time--because no way was I going into TKR obese with out of control blood sugars and tons of insulin. 4 months in to my fitness journey, my dr took me off all insulin. my numbers are all normal now. I eat something sugary, of course they are going to pop back up--point is, I changed my lifestyle completely. I'm 58 so on the younger side of this type of surgery but I had medial and lateral meniscal tears, tricompartmental osteoarthritis and bone spurs--my left knee is hanging in there with a likely lateral meniscal tear that has healed. It's a workhorse and has been my rock so I hope it holds out but it's full of arthritis too. My point is that it's a darn shame what happened to you and you certainly should have had better support and medication management! I'm also an RN for 31 years and yet I had no idea about the nighttime pain and insomnia. I go without pain meds all day and am fine until bedtime and then forget it-I toss and turn, moaning and groaning. My husband has found me sleeping sitting up slumped against the wall. I'm just so exhausted and I have peripheral neuropathy in my feet which has really increased during this whole ordeal and between bone pain and nerve pain I find myself wishing for another nerve block, for the love of god. Why don't they make those last longer to get patients through their first few weeks at least?? well, good luck to you. Your comment was 3 months ago-I hope you are well on your way to full function and doing much better!~
You Drove???? I had sepsis 2 days after surgery....9 days later home with Iron and Red Blood count in the toilet. I did home PT 3 outta the next five days and immediately fired the person and got to a Professionals (PT) office I was almost 2 weeks behind but that bike and standing behind the bike holding the seat and squatting helped. Also timed my 5 mg to 1.5 oxy 1.5 hours before my PT session and they would bend me until I couldn't take the pain. I'm at 12 weeks today and go into the PT office at 118 degrees and leave at 130ish
Dr. Rosen - Thank you for the excellent talk. I am at a week and a half of recovery from a full knee replacement. You got straight to the issues I'm experiencing right now and spoke from the perspective of the patient. It really is about facing the fear of the pain and pushing through to achieve an optimal outcome.
I did pre-TKR exercises-to the extent possible through the pain- which helped, I'd say...I'm 76, 5 months out of surgery. The PT twice a week was very hard but I knew it had to be done.The two-a-days at home were just as important and effective.Iced up and rested, put away the walker at 10th day and the cane at 2 months...Did total of 12 weeks PT, never any swelling.Still a little tight but good. Did lose a week when I pulled an outside knee muscle on the leg press. I walk half mile every other day, going to increase that soon. Can flatten back of knee to zero and ROM to 120 degrees.Dr. Rosens advice is 10 out of ten.
When I had a total knee replacement I slept in a recliner. Get yourself comfortable with a pillow under your knee and on top of your knee. Use ice, ice and more ice along with pain meds. Do your rehab like you are suppose to. Fight through the pain, but whatever you do do not skip your rehab at all. In fact I did a little more than prescribed. This use ice for 20 minutes at a time is not what I did. For the first 10-15 days I had ice on unless I was rehabbing. The most important thing is do not let scar tissue build up. My end results were terrific. I was 70 when I had my knee done. I played 18 holes of golf 6 weeks after surgery. I will be 78 in 3 weeks. Going strong, playing golf 3 times a week plus other mild exercises.
Thank you Doctor Rosen for not pulling punches and telling it like it is. I had heard this message before, but not with your emphasis. I am more committed now because of your video. I am 7 weeks until my TKR - I will be much better prepared because of you. Checking out your other videos now too. Sincerely, thank you so very much Doctor.
Well listened to u this morn. Wish I had this earlier. Been 2 months since TKR. My bending is just like u said this morning. Scar tissue from rehab for 11days and had no strienous stretch and ended up with bad scar tissue. Had manipulation done the 19 th. Can’t get my knee back passed 110. Hurts like crazy. I will start these two exercises today every hour and hope for improvement when I go back Monday. Thanks
Just got a TKR 2.5 weeks ago and have been a little discouraged because of the pain and sleep deprivation (and I've been doing rehab 3x week). But this video has been the most informative and helpful I have found.
Hang in there - it took about a few months for the swelling to go down and get more range of motion. Four months from TKR and am walking 1/2 to one mile a day and it is life changing and I feel ten years younger. Keep moving and don't give up.
Thank you. It’s been 6 months since surgery and I can say it makes a difference to work at the bending and straightening. The last month of less exercise I did stiffen up but doing these two movements have gotten me back to where I was before. Thanks again.
Hello Dr Rosen, I am 6 weeks and 2 days post left partial knee replacement, I started listening to you a week ago, and it helped me tremendously on my range of motion. I was at 105 flexion at 5 weeks and after listening to your advice and how important ROM is, I started focusing only on ROM. Today I am at 125 flexion and extension is 1 to 2 degrees. My flexion before surgery was about 90 degrees on good days and my extension 5 to 8 degrees regularly. Thank you so much for your encouragement, you really made a difference in my rehab
Adam, love your videos!! Very informative and encouraging. I’m a 62 yr old male and had TKA on my left knee on Jan 24, 2023 after exhausting other options (cortisone, gel shots and physical therapy) stopped helping. Had surgery at 8 am and was headed home by 3:30 pm same day after doing some short duration walking with a walker. Started going to PT day after surgery. Able to get to 105 deg on first day. At 3rd session I am at 118 deg and 6 deg when leg is “straight” out after 1 week. . Walking pretty much unassisted (no cane / walker). Encouraged so far with only complaint being sleep disruption. Only getting 2-3 hrs sleep at night which will hopefully improve when staples and swelling are gone. Currently taking hydrocodone every 6 hrs round the clock and 800 mg of ibuprofen 3x day.
Thank you so much! This just reinforces whatI”ve been told. I love your bending exercise and will begin TODAY (2 1/2 weeks after surgery). Sleep and lower back pain have been my issues.
I’m 56, 12 months out left tkr. I can say as soon as I got of surgery and home I started range of motion exercises. I did them as often as I could tolerate. Immediately had better range than pre-op. Within weeks I wished I had surgery many many years earlier. I can ski again, my golf handicap has been cut in half, I can run, and hike but most awesome is I can now sleep because my knee never hurts.
Hannah & Peter...I’m at 5 weeks post TKR Op today (10th Jan 23). Be mentally prepared for pain & discomfort. Be fastidious with the exercises on the hour daily. Also rest up between with leg elevated. A tip. Buy a knee cuff with gel sleeve, Arris knee cuff was my choice. Put the gel in the freezer for couple of hours & put it in the knee cuff then wrap around your knee for 15/20 mins. I mostly put on after exercising as the knee can swell. This really helps with pain too. Last tip. Massage above & below the knee, and the knee area & scar itself after it has healed & no weeping from the wound. I use coconut oil but once healed most oils are ok. This helps break up the scar tissue & reduces swelling. Best wishes to you both.
Liz, how kind of you to share your recent experiences. They are encouraging! You are a disciple of Dr. Rosen - "tell it like it is!" - and I so appreciate that! I have my pre-op meeting tomorrow at the clinic up in Vail, CO (I'm in Denver). Alas, I used to ski there.
I just had knee replacement surgery 2 1/2 weeks ago and I am very clear that pain comes with the territory. I made a point of asking the surgeon and two physical therapists if there is anything I could do to hurt my knee by doing these exercises and everybody said no. How we handle pain creates limitations. I just press through the pain with the faith that eventually it will go away. Right now I can bend my knee to 115° and straightening it I’m at 2°. When I finish my exercises, it seems like my knee retards a little bit but I don’t let that bother me I just keep going. Also, I have a stationary bike and I ride it three times a day for 10 minutes each time. This isn’t much fun for me but, I don’t want to end up with a bigger problem down the road so, I do the exercises multiple times a day to mitigate future problems. By the way, it took five months to schedule the surgery, so what I did in the meantime, was talk to a physical therapist and asked him what exercises I could do for preparation. I was cycling 40 minutes a day at a fairly high intensity, and I did additional weight training on the leg I was going to have surgery surgery on. It’s a little early to tell, but I am assuming that was beneficial
Today marks my 3rd week after right knee TKR and recovery is coming along as well as I can hope for. One of the many reasons I believe that have been very helpful has been your video clips. I've watched them multiple times over - before and after surgery and surprisingly have found that as the post-op days tick on, I pick up one or two things new from clips I've already watched. I love the fact that you lay it out like it is - the onus of recovery is on the patient - with the assurance that done correctly, improvement will occur. Thanks for your videos - they're a really fantastic resource!!
I am now four months post TKR. I had my surgery in the public health system of Costa Rica. Prior to surgery the only preparation I had was a booklet of exercises in Spanish. I did not meet with my surgeon prior to entering the hospital and I did not see him in the hospital before or after my surgery. I had one physical therapy in the hospital and one outside the hospital about three weeks after surgery. They told me I was doing so well no further therapy was needed. In the absence of virtually any information or therapy I relied on videos, primarily yours, to guide me in my preparation and recovery. Your video on "How to Get The Best Motion From Your TKR" was invaluable to me as I religiously do these two exercises three times every day. I also have a stationary bicycle which I use regularly. I saw my surgeon after one month and he said I was doing great. Your videos gave me the information I needed to know what to expect before and after surgery and to set the proper goals. I thank you greatly and extend my profound appreciation for your efforts in making these important videos available to TKR patients.
I had R TKR 14 days ago. I live alone and am independent in my adl’s. I’m using a cane now as a mobility aid and my PT says I will probably not need it in another week. I have 120 degree flexion and complete extension. Sleeping still is challenging. I lost 100 pounds and worked out with a private trainer and PT with focus on knee strength prior to surgery. All of that helped with my recovery.
He acts like everybody is the same. Some people don’t tolerate pain as well as other people some people just have more. It’s been eight weeks exactly since my surgery and I am at 115° passive. My pain keeps me awake every night and I am faithful about doing my exercises. He has a one-size-fits-all approach.
Great information. However, it’s not true that slow or lack of progress achieving ROM is always related to patient’s lack of commitment to rehab exercises. I am one of those people that at 8 weeks out have not reached 120 degrees. It is not for lack of trying. I probably spend at least 2 hours daily working thru the pain on ROM. I use a pedal bike for 10 minutes 3 times daily. PT has requested I limit my walking to 4 blocks at a time to avoid a possible cause of inflammation. I say bravo to those lucky souls who are progressing well. But do not assume that the blame for poor progress lies with the patient.
Thanks Dr. Adam! I had my 1st knee replacement surgery 4/10/24. I got my full range of motion back doing exactly what you say to do. I'm 72 yrs. old, and had to really push myself hard but was well worth it. the recumbent exercise bike really helped me build up stamina. your video should be shown to everyone that has knee surgery before released by doctor. I had great therapist working with me whice helped a lot. just got my 2nd knee replacement 9/11/24. and I'm doing exactly the same treatment now. Thanks so much for your video God Bless... Jim!
My Dr. prescribed pre-operation physical therapy with exercises which strengthened and stretched the muscles. After surgery, I am way ahead of your goals. At 3 weeks I was at 115 and 120 at the 4th week. I firmly believe in pre-op PT.
Yes! exercise always helps. Years ago pre-op PT (Pre-hab) was common then it fell out of vogue but is more common now. Either formal PT or a home exercise program (HEP) that is given to patients to do on their own.
I got full knee replacement and surgeon never spoke to me afterwards. He didn’t have me stay in the hospital. He left all pain management up to my family practice Dr. I DID have PT and OT and Nurse come to my house for 5 weeks after. I did the exercises they gave me. Went to the surgeon post op and saw his Physicians Assistant. He’s never met with me and I’m now 11 weeks out. I’m not in pain but i have stiffness. I’ve got pretty good range cuz I worked on it. But no thanks to my surgeon and he didn’t even explain how things went after surgery to the person who picked me up. I feel totally ripped off and like he could’ve crippled me by not following up.
Sorry to hear. You may look for another surgeon in your area for a second opinion. AAHKS is a good resource to located a hip and knee specialist in your area.
After a painless full knee replacement I had 120 degrees of range of motion after 7 days. . The therapist did say she had never seen this before and the pain was barely noticeable after the surgery. I went off the walker and Oxy in 4-5 days. Not sure why this sent so well. I was prepared for some nasty pain by my surgeon but it never happened. I guess will get the other one done.
The surgeon who did my TKR did crippled me from 2021 to 2024 in on a cane and walker. I live with severe pain everyday now! A stiff knee w/infection blood clot swelling and soarness.
Thank you "Dr Rosen" for explaining the progress at each week with expected degrees. I was doing well at 6 days post-op, but then 4 DVT's, infection, Cellulitis came into the picture, and those unfortunately really set me back. It was at 3 weeks post-op that I could begin to proceed normally, and now at 4 weeks post-op I am realizing that I have to fight the clock to have my best chance at full recovery. The knee bend flexion is my worst enemy, as the set-back still has me @75-80 degrees. These next couple of weeks you have given me a whole new direction to be victorious Thank you again!
Thank you so much for this information. Scheduled for a TKR on the right on December 27th and researching pre-op and post-op exercises. Been exercising regularly for several months and feel thankful my muscle tone is good going into this surgery. But mostly feel very motivated to have a successful outcome. Again…my sincere thanks for providing such valuable post-op info. Cheers!
@@MountainDiva That's very good news. Any tips before I have my TKR on Oct. 26th? I'm doing pre-surgery PT exercises now, and I'm still able to do some dumbbells and walk my dog, albeit not as far as I used to, thus the TKR. Thanks for getting back to me.
@@slundgr The Pre-op exercises in my mind are crucial as I’ve seen what happened with others who didn’t do them (more pain, slower progress). Also, start PT as soon as your doctor says and work very, very hard at your therapy. On both knees I was at full flexion and extension in 3 weeks. Most important, stay positive and motivated. I was off Rx pain meds in a week (I hate that stuff) and maintained pain control with Tylenol and Aleve but have a very high pain tolerance compared to most.
Thank you doctor ! Wish my doc was this thorough and thoughtful! I’m on 7th week and working hard and catching up with extension and bending too!! This is definitely helping me with my flexibility and pain, thanks and appreciate your emphasis on pain relief which I actually feel less pain, tightness and numbness now!!
Hi 4rm Ireland 🇮🇪 ood videos ...but targets bit steep ..I can't get full 90 degrees , .iam on week 3 ..its getting there but motion is slow ..I've no pain and iam off pain killers completely...I can walk on it, but still use crucths just 2 give it break...
I had a total Knee replacement three years ago. I worked hard and constantly on bending and stretching. Riding the bike really helped me. I pedalled for 20 mins forward and then backwards each day. No pain, great range of motion. Wish I could have done this a few years ago.
I had my TKR in Aug 23 ! I am so frustrated ! I have done my exercises faithfully ! My knee straightens and bends well but I still have extreme pain when trying to get into and out of the car and following long walks ! The pain is around my kneecap and at each side of the kneecap and behind the knee ! Is this normal ! 🤔
Thank you SO MUCH! There was no stay. I was given 4 pictures to use as PT after surgery Dec 21. I had to wait 11 days for PT. Yes I used the pictures but not in a regimented time frame. Today is Jan 13th and I'm working but I need more to catch up. I'm starting my 1 minute stretching and 1 minute bending every hour now! Hopefully I will catch up. Wish me luck! Thank you again!
I had my replacement at 71 years of age. Went to therapy on 2nd day after surgery. Therapist would not give an inch. She made me do it, I returned to playing golf 7 weeks after my replacement.
me too--had first PT visit on day one post op and then 2 PT visits on day 2 post op and three per week since then--I am 2.5 weeks out. early and frequent ROM is crucial and icing 20 mins per hour and elevation. Crucial!
I’m just want to said thank you for all your videos this is the first video I see and then about the bike station. Helping me a lot with my knee replacement surgery this day is my my 4 1/2 weeks after my surgery I know is a lot pain but I do it , it was very painful I get not bend my knee all this 4 1/2 weeks I’m very tired not enough sleep I will try everything on watching your videos on RU-vid channel thank you again to give me some refills
At 57 years i had a double knee replacement on the same day. At 11 years on I can raise both foot heals too 7 inches to my butt. I started with a exercise bike pedalling backyards at first then the normal way very slowly and building up. And every thing they told me to do. Iam still a happy chappy.
All of this sounds lovely - but *NEWSFLASH* - If your swelling isn’t under control, you can forget about flexion, my friends. Your body simply cannot bend when swollen flesh is blocking the path. Consider requesting a diuretic if the swelling is really bad and not diminished sufficiently by ice - and your medical team isn’t on it (thankfully, my PCP WAS). Also, give me a break about “pushing through the pain.” How about prescribing sufficient pain medication so that patients can endure these exercises? A person can’t control ANYTHING when they can’t think straight because movement is torture. LITERALLY. I was very aware that the first 6-8 weeks were crucial, and determined not to dally during that golden window. I had no doubt of what my knee and I were capable of; I wasn’t lazy nor afraid my incision was going to split open. However, I WAS aversive to blinding, excruciating pain - and I believe too many physicians are ignorant of just how bad the pain can be. Moreover, pain sends a signal to the brain making one’s muscles INVOLUNTARILY tense up. In other words, in “fighting through exercise,” people are literally battling their own subconscious, protective reflexes - and that truly IS beyond our conscious control. All of this “straight shooting” by the surgeon seemingly overlooks this fact. Something tells me this dude has never had a TKR, or dealt with the realities of one. Perhaps understanding the brain-muscle control interaction isn’t part of the orthopedic curriculum in his neck of the woods. I was operated on at the best orthopedic hospital in the country - and thoroughly versed in the facts. I was in-hospital for 6 days and in rehab another 9 days. I’m now 13 weeks out of my surgery - and though I was originally lagging behind landmarks, but am now at 130 degrees flexion and STILL MAKING GAINS. For me, the gains are coming easier, albeit slower. While I appreciate the intention behind the making of this video, it would be nice if ALL the facts were contended with - and not just selective ones. 🤨
Totally agree with you! Push through the pain is such a stupid phrase in this day and age, we have robotics to do surgery but we can’t devise adequate pain relief. I am one of the most motivated people on the planet and a health professional sometimes you do need to listen to your body, one size does not fit all. Now day 7 post TKR, doing my exercises as I can concentrating on the important ones and not killing myself in the interim trying to compete with John Wick!
Thank you for this video. I was stuck at 110° after 7weeks. I started the next day I saw this video and my range is 116° In one week. My PT asked me to show him the exercises. 8 weeks and I couldn't be happier with the results.
I have had a hip replacement which was really easy to recover from. Moving isn’t as painful as the knee is at the beginning. I also had a knee replacement six months after my hip replacement and I had been warned. It would be harder, but when I woke up from the surgery, I was really uncomfortable and I asked the nurse if I could sit up and swing my legs over the bed just sit there at the side of the bed and swing my legs. She said as long as you don’t try and walk yourself that’s fine, so that’s what I did and I did it every time I started to get uncomfortable by the time I left hospital the next day I 🎉could bend my knee all the way back was amazed. I mean it hurt but bad not bad.. my surgery was postponed for two years because of Covid so my legs have been very painful already and I didn’t find the pain from surgery much worse than that. Have done you will wonder why you waited so long. I thought I would also have to have the other knee done but amazingly the pain in that knee went away completely after the 2 surgeries.
I’m about 2.5 weeks post op and was able to get to 100° at my Tuesday PT visit three days ago. I was feeling so good that I maxed out my ROM ex’s and had the worst pain that night. Almost as bad as my first nights home from the hospital. I’m positive that the extra hard work that day contributed to it and I do not want a repeat. But I want to keep up with the ROM’s. How do I do so without triggering the huge pain at night?
After both of my knee replacements the one thing that helped me a lot was getting in my rocker and every day I moved my feet back just a little farther the other thing that helped me was I put a glass in the bathroom every time I went to the bathroom I drank a glass of water by the time I got to my chair to sit down I had to get up and go back to the bathroom it was great I never had one problem with bend of my knees are the straightening of my knees I just don’t understand about the nerve in the front of my kneeIf I go to get on my knees that nerve warns me that I can’t do that
I am now 16 weeks PO and everyone tells me that I'm walking good but, still feel the swelling behind the knee and have a hard time getting past 120 degrees. Another thing that is very annoying I keep getting these nerve pains down the front/side of my leg from knee to ankle. The surgeon says they can give me a little shot in the bursa sac to relieve that pain but I'd rather work through it instead of getting an injection. Any thoughts?
@@bohoxplorer840 I'm now coming up on 14 months PO and the pain down side of leg has gotten a lot better. Four months ago I purchased an ebike and have been riding it every night (weather permitting) and that has been the best thing for my knees as far as ROM and lack of stiffness. BUT, I still feel the stiffness and pain behind the knee and I'm being told that is probably from fluid but nobody can tell me why I'm getting fluid there.
@@davesi56 try these exercises.. it’s really helping me. My second knee replacement is much more stiff then the first side. This side was injured worse..so it as grinding much longer before workmans comp finally approved an MRI..then repair..then replacement.WHICH WAS WHAT WAS ACTUALLY NEEDED 2 years ago‼️‼️ ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-yL5maSn3M-g.html
Very good talk. I live alone. Had my son first week. After that alone. I made every cup of tea and meal in recovery. I cried I laughed at myself. After 2 weeks I didn’t use the crutches. I was up and down the stairs all the time. And did my washing in small batches. Exercised when I could. I sit with my heal on a stool, to keep it straight. This was agonizing at first. Now I don’t even think about it. At 13 weeks post op. My leg is straight and my bend is 120. I’m now at a gym. Work and you will get there. I’m 69 years old. Thank you for your talk😊
Doctor all due respect but for you to say get on a stationary cycle one day after TKR is bizarre to say the least , most people a day later are still high as a kite, the pain doesn’t set in till day 3 , you are struggling to even sit on your toilet at day 3, I managed to start peddling on a foot pedal week 3 and it was very painful, I class myself as reasonably fit and healthy, I think you telling people to start peddling is very unprofessional of you and could be dangerous , I am not getting at you in anyway as your other advice is really helpful .
Whoa, a 90 degree bend upon leaving the hospital is expected?!!!! I was intrigued by your emphasis on the first 6 weeks of work until that comment. Never saw or read that anywhere by any other docs. Have heard 2 weeks or 2-4 weeks but same day? Absurd. You lost me. So, if you couldn’t do that the surgery was a failure? Or you, the patient, are a wuss? Thanks for the empathy. Hope you never have to go thru this.
Thank you for this information. It was great. I'm 52 andl Im extremely double jointed. I've dealt with joints popping out my entire life. I know I'll be having the other knee done. I'm not sure I want to do my shoulders.. then there's my back, wrists, All I see is a life of pain
Thank you! 4 weeks post op, my home pt was soft on me, didn’t do much at all. I didn’t realize the timeline and urgency of doing these exercises. Hopefully I’m able to get to where I need to be. Quad frozen first 2 weeks. Thank you
Keep up the hard work. Talk with your surgeon about getting a different therapist or being sent to outpatient if they didn't already do so. This is the critical time for your rehab.
I am two weeks out from my tkr on my right knee and am at 96 to 98 degrees and zero for straightened. Can't lie therapy is hard work and very painful but we have to go through it. I am having hip issues and am unable to sit for more than a few minutes at a time. They said it is bursitis and are giving me some exercises for that also.
I'm scheduled for TKR on 10-26-22 and found this informative. I'm doing pre-surgery PT exercises in hopes I will have a better outcome. It seems like people think the surgery is going to fix everything and don't realize it's still surgery, and with surgery, there is pain. Once the surgery is done, I think that's when the real work begins-for the patient.
Care to share your prehab exercises? I'm doing mainly those lying down for the quads. Surgery scheduled for my first less invasive, quad sparing robotic-arm assisted TKR on 9/19/22. Good luck to you in October !
@@cindybradford6994 Sure! I am happy to share my exercises. I do bridges every morning (2 sets of 12), and I like to do bridges and single leg lifts. I also do an exercise where I get up and down from a chair 15 times (3 sets). It helps strengthen the thigh muscles, which are key. I have an SKLZ band that I can put around each leg and then do the monster walk (forward and backward) for 2 sets of 12. I also use that band to lateral steps in each direction for 2 sets of 12. They really help the hips. I do exercises that stretch the hip, such as lie on the floor and put one leg in a 90 degree angle while you put the ankle of the other leg on the knee. Pull the knee toward you and hold for 30 seconds. Do 2-3 sets with each leg. Another one I do is step-ups using my front porch step and a 10 lb. fitness ball (use a weight that is comfortable for you) I put the left leg on the porch step and step up and then down twelve times with the right leg. Then switch legs. Do those 12 times for 2 sets. Another one is balance on each leg for 30 seconds for 2-3 sets. I hope that helps. I have a sleeve I use for a knee brace and try to walk each day (to tolerance) to help with my cardio and to keep my leg muscles strong. Let me know if you have questions. Best of luck to you. Let me know how it goes.
Thank you Dr. Rosen for these videos. I’m coming up on 3 weeks since my knee replacement surgery. My surgeon and physical therapists have been amazing but having your videos for additional explanations/demonstrations have been invaluable! I usually watch one or two each night after retiring for review and reinforcement for what I should be doing. Just wanted to thank you for making a difference.
Thank you for that informative video I am following along with my physical therapy spot on. I'm at 3 .5 weeks into physio and have reached 115°. My biggest concern is I still have lots of swelling. Not just the knee the full leg. I'm told not to be concerned about it, but of course I am.
I know this video was three years ago, but for my TKR six weeks ago, when I came home from the hospital my doctor had my leg wrapped up like a mummy from the thigh down. So I couldn't bend it at all lol. It was that way for four days. Until we took off the long bandage. Now I have about 125° at six weeks. Thanks for the video.
Thank After my total knee replacement six weeks ago and watching so many videos on exercises I am sure these are the ones to concentrate on. Thank you.
Thank you Dr. Adam Rosen. Your RU-vid is excellent and informative. I broke my L patella on June 25. X ray shown 4 mm at the emergency that day. No Sx performed there till it was showing 13 mm at the orthopedic clinic on June 28. They had to delay my Sx till June 30 due to bed shortage. I have to wear Zimmer Splint all time to keep my leg straight, with status WBAT. I only had one shot of blood thinner in the hospital on July 1. Dr. did not give me any prescription of blood thinners to use after discharge to home at all. However, no physiotherapy exercise instruction given to me after I was sent home on July 2 . From July 2 to 6, my leg and knee were extremely swollen and red. Blood rushed down to my foot and toes with severe reddish to purplish color look once I stood up. I found lots of bruises on the back of my knee and top of my calf. Was I having blood clotting some where in my leg that time? Today is Aug. 7, I still feel my knee is unable to bend to 90 degrees. I feel very stiff and still having decreased sensations that is similar the feeling after dentist injected anaesthesia onto my gum. My normal sensation has never returned since the accident. I reported it to my surgeon at the follow up appointment, he said the nerve on my knee has been damaged and might be a permanent issue. Any thoughts to improve my nerves with exercise, and what nutrients I should ingest in order to help my nerve sensations back? Please advise? I don't know what the best way is in receiving your reply for helping but to give you my email address: ericasclai@gmail.com Looking forward to hearing from you. Thank you.
Thank you for your video. I had a tkr in May. I also have had a couple set backs but have started PT again. So far, it's slow going but things are improving somewhat. I have fallen 4 times since surgery and also had sepsis and had a little more of my foot amputated. I passed out about 2 1/2 weeks ago and I guess landed directly on my new knee. Dr said we'll do a couple weeks of PT, then a MUA, then intensive therapy again. Do you agree with this approach? I want to try these exercises you've demonstrated. My PTs don't have me do anything like these and as an RN they make the most sense. Thank you for a great video and awesome information. 🦵🦵🦵
sorry to hear you have been going through so much. Therapy after knee replacement is hard enough without all of the added things you have had happen. Unfortunately, the scar tissue does not wait to form, even if you are going through other things. I would talk with your doctor and therapist and find out what they can do to help.
@@dradamrosen i have an appointment with my surgeon Nov 15. I'm almost scared to go in. My pain has been so bad and no one will treat it. My PT says I don't need MUA because I have decent ROM. But that's after she pushes my knee back to measure. She just jerks up on that knee to measure extension. I have tears rolling down my face when she does this. I can't walk with my knee straight. I an incredble fall risk as I only have about 2/3 of each foot left. Yes, I go barefoot. I'm so frustrated and in so much pain I'm thinking about saying i want the MUA. Then about 1/2 hr before surgery taking my entire months supply of Ambien. The world is a crappy place right now and I don't think anyone would care if I died. Sorry. That's how far my frustration has come.
I had a TKR 3.5 weeks ago. When I woke up in recovery they had my knee flexed about 130 degrees. Seeing that image tells me it can and will get to that point. I am currently at 101 flexion and 0 extension. The seated stationary bike is the best exercise for me. Your videos are excellent. I watched them prior to TKR and continue to watch them.
Both knees done one is unipolar the other was full replacement. I cannot tolerate cocktail parties, where I have to stand talking to somebody for more than a few minutes I have a good motion in my knees, good flex I walked 3 miles a day or more no issues I worked through the pain and it was a lot, but it made a huge difference. . However, you are absolutely right standing or even sitting in an awkward position too long it’s not good the cocktail party is the worst lol.
Hi I did total knee replacement 13 weeks I can bent 106 iam going to gym I do stationary bicycle for 30 mintes and other excersize with this routine I can get to 120 and still very stiff and swollen and mild pain.please what I can do
If you go to a gym , get in a pool or whirlpool ... or ask a friend ...water resistance is easily the best for low impact as you are trying gain ROM and cut down on pain ... 2ndly don't ever have a pity party for yourself ....push past pain and be tired when you go to bed , physically tired ... besides no kne cares about your pain but you .... if still slightly painful , go to bed with ice on knee
Excellent post TKR physiotherapy. My U.K. surgeon doesn’t talk much, so didn't say anything about this. Neither did the post-surgery physiotherapist, especially my pre surgery physiotherapist who preferred only using Tens to as he said "wake up the muscles". The hospital physiotherapist got me to 88° & discharged me, he was a good physiotherapist but didnt talk about 90°, 100° at 2 weeks, 110° @ 4 weeks, or 120° @ 6weeks! This is so good to know, especially that the implant won't be damaged. I was so scared something would break. I really appreciate this. Thank you Dr. Rosen! Could you also perhaps advise the best aerobics stationary bike to buy? Thank you again, Dr. Rosen! Best, Tolu Ighodalo
October 24th 2022 I had a total knee replacement done by dr. Wilwand at,walla walla clinic surgery center I had excellent care. In to weeks I could bend my knee 90%. It is now over 3 weeks and I can bend my leg 105% laying down. It is so important to do exactly what your doctor tells you to do. I exercise at home alot plus my pt. It is worth the pain to get your knee to bend.
I had RTKA in Jan and LTKA 4 wks ago. I agree about living alone and having to do ADLs. I did 3 mo of PT with my R knee and when cleared went to the pool and swam. I have 130 deg flexion in my R knee and I can flatten it to zero. At 4 wks I have 100-110 deg flexion already in my left knee and can almost flatten it completely. On the days I don’t go to PT I do my home exercises 3x a day including riding the recumbent bike. I credit my success to my physical therapists who stressed the importance of doing these exercises. Also as you mentioned since I live alone I had to prepare meals, clean and do laundry which meant I had to go up and down the steps to my laundry room. But it was PT and helped. Also put my heal on the edge of my hassock and let it just hang. All of this has helped. So thanks for info...
Thank you so much for the excellent review/exercises. So I've had 2 knee replacements. Immediately after each one, I went through therapy and my therapists and doctor were very pleased that, by the end, I had 130 degrees of motion and if I 'pushed' a bit more, I got up to 135. I was very happy about it. I have a recumbent bike at home plus an elliptical so I've exercised on those. However, 2 years later after going through my late husband's illness and taking care of him and not concentrating much on myself, I find that my knees' range of motion have decreased considerably. Left leg is at 100 and my right leg is at 90. I was horrified - and after listening to you, I'm wondering whether they developed scar tissues, even after I was successful in having such great range during the first year. I will definitely do your recommended exercises daily in hopes that I can regain additional range, even if it's not the optimal that I experienced after therapy. Thank you for your explanations.
Thank you for the clarification of some of the things I’ve heard from my doctor and PT. This is all more clear now. I am starting my second week after having my left knee replaced. I feel more motivated to work through the pain. I think the thing I appreciate the most. Is you obviously care about our well-being. So thank you.
Thank you for this info! I have been doing these before surgery in October and have reduced my knee’s angle by 4 degrees which to me was so important. Using muscles to improve flexibility with various other exercises. I’ll keep these up and get my bike ready for action after surgery!
I'm 8 weeks post surgery and about 5 degrees from full extension. Have I missed the critical window for full extension? I've focused the last week or so on extension but just can't seem to get past the last 5 degrees. Are there more advanced exercises to help people who are beyond the critical 6 week window? Thanks for the great videos. Wish I found them earlier in my recovery.
Usually the further from surgery the harder it gets. Talk with your PT. Hard to say if it is from the joint, scar tissue or tight hamstrings. If my patients are lacking extension I have them to the extension exercise every hour while they are awake. Usually a week or two of that and they get fully straight.
hey Adam, great video! I am scheduled for a TKR in July 2023. I know you spoke on pre-op vs. post-op ROM. right now I can bend to about 100 degrees. do you see patients experience rapid loss of ROM in a matter of months before surgery? what are your thoughts? thanks! scott
I sm scheduled to have the surgery in a few weeks. Great video but i am scared to death after reading all the comments from people that have had it i guess it opens my eyes to the fact that i must be aware i have to work hard and us gojng to be painful. I wish i didn't have to do it.
Good luck with your op Claudia. It’s so scary when you don’t know what to expect. I’m 3 weeks post op, & can definitely see & feel the difference from week 1. Hang in there 😁👍
Great info I’m 2 yrs post and I still do these exercises.Ontario 🇨🇦Jan 8 on Dec 3 had the other knee done now 2 months post and have a 120 flex exercising both knees 3 times a day. Thx for your info.
My surgeon did not even meet with me after surgery. Instead he sent a nurse practitioner to speak to me. I was not given a physical therapist. I was not given a regiment. I’m so confused on what I should do next?
My knee was so swollen the first 3 weeks.. there is no way i could go thru those exercises then. Ok week 4 ,5,6 is really important to push thru the discomfort
I had my first TKR in July of '23, and had 105° flexion on first visit, and ended with 135°. I was warned not to try for 140°, because it might damage my plastic "meniscus". (It didn't). Do the PT! Keep stretching every single day. I'm having my other TKR in October (4 days away) and I can't wait! Edit #1 1st PT visit post-op on my 2nd TKR was 105° flexion as well. 1° away from full extension. Edit #2 I have achieved 0° extension and 135° flexion. Listen carefully to everything the Dr. says, and then do it!
I used Dr Rosen's video as my Bible. Did a LOT of work in the gym 8-months prior to surgery which was March 21st 2024 - my 70th birthday. Exactly 14 days after surgery I has my 1st appointment with the PT. My bend was measured at 132 degrees, straightening was a 0 degree gap. It was hard the first few days but after 3 days I was walking without a walker and off prescription meds entirely after 5 days. This advice is genius.... Still have sleep issues hopefully it improves over time. Thank you Dr Rosen.
⭐The photograph taken in the hospital O.R.is Brilliant!! 👍Thanks for the great incentive.💯 Being able to see this really makes a difference for some people.✔️ I definitely needed that encouragement. It was proof to me I can do it. And must practice every single day Post Op to get there again.🏆
Thank you. I’m just shy of two weeks out from bilateral knee replacement surgery. My right leg doesn’t have great range of motion before my surgery. This will really help me to push to get the best I can get. This is the best information I’ve received!
Very good video, and I have used some of the exercises to good effect, but please do not get down hearted if you are not making the time lines. I did all Physio and left hospital ar 75 degrees. I kept going but did not progress abs needed and MUA. Nothing to do with not doing exercises, simply my body loves creating thick scar tissue. At 16 weeks I am now 115 and am confident this will increase. I am also using the stationary bike and it is really helping.
I have a TKR 5 weeks ago. My ROM is at 120. Why I still have so much pain at night in my whole leg ? How much pain medicine I should be taking ? This recovery is taking longer than I expect.
Wow, I wish I had know this when I had a TKR Jan 5. It wasn't until 8 weeks that I got to almost 90 as I was afraid of causing damage due to being soooo swollen and painful to bend. Then on my 8 week meeting my Dr. said if I don't get it to 115 or so within the next few weeks it would mean another surgery and he let me know the gruesome details. Well, it was the most pain I had ever experienced in my life but I forced it to tears (& some cussing) 5X/day for the next 3-4 weeks and by the end of that I was at about 120 degrees. No one stressed how important bending was those first 6 weeks were, neither my Dr. or the PT. I hope a lot of people see this video & benefit from your advice. Many thanks!
This was great news for me! I’m 16 months post op LTKR and still have pain. I worked extremely hard in PT but at 10 weeks I had a MUA. Since, I’ve been struggling more! I regret having the surgery and am sad every day but I won’t give up!!! Now, I have sciatic nerve pain and bursitis on the right hip/back area and stabbing pain Every day! Please advise?
Two weeks, Two days post op...PT is very helpful and am already able to bend surgery knee to 116°. Stationary bike is vital for working through stiffness and swelling. I am very encouraged with my progress...I have an awesome surgeon, his staff and the PT staff, as well as family support. Also, using good leg to assist surgery leg mobility is quite helpful.
I am at 4 weeks, had 132 ROM if pulled in, but each morning it starts back at ~90 and have to walk bike for 10 min the I can do the chair flex and then do the knee sides in bed , repeat the next day.. Now do chair flex exercises 3x at night, can’t sleep more than an hour or two, but next morning back to 90. How to keepROM? Do the flex exercises 6x a day, knee gets hot , swell and can get pain each flex session!
Thanks very much ur advice is awesome. I did one knee 5 yrs ago, and it was perfectly OK until I did the second knee. The first knee became painful, very loose,grinding,it makes me very stress. My second is 2 months old. I'm doing therapy. I'm taking ur advice n doing the 2 tips. I'm hoping all will be well w my first knee. Thanks Dr.
Dr. Rosen, thank you for the information. I’m on my 8th week of recovery. Since the 4 to 5 week I’ve told my surgeon that I feel a small non painfull crack when I bend my knee. Surgeon says it the contact of the prosthesis with my knee cap and it’s ok but to me it’s like something is loose. Again I have the normal recovery pain at this stage of recovery, full 90 degree bend and working to have a better extension. Does this sounds normal to you ? Thanks in advance
That doesn’t sound normal to me. I’ve talked with a LOT of people who had TKR cuz mine was done while COVID is still a big concern and was sent home right after surgery. I was in massive pain for the first 10 days and then it started getting better quickly. Much thanks for my family doc and PT’s. My Surgeon was young and cares more about how many he can do a day and is FREAKED out about narcotics which was dumb cuz my family Dr gave me stuff until I was able to start controlling the pain. I had zero withdrawal. What is all of the nonsense about narcotics? I’ve had my Gallbladder out and a hernia fixed at the same time. Took the meds prescribed and asked for a refill cuz I still had pain where I couldn’t control it after a week. After 2 weeks that time I was able to go to Tylenol or Alieve and was good. So, I think people that get addicted are using when they no longer have pain. That’s all that makes sense to me.
It hurts, but it's not hurting the knee. That being said, his recommendations are pretty tough due to pain. I'm at 4 weeks, 120⁰ and finally 0⁰ today. The bend was hard but the straightening is impossibly painful. Makes me want to vomit. My other knee was never this hard to straighten. Everyone, every limb, is different.
Wow, seems legit, I’m 4 weeks post op with only 80 Degrees, my Dr. Wants to do the MUA, I’m hesitant and let him know I will work harder to catch up, in two weeks I’ve gone from 60 to 80 and it’s feels much stronger, I’m going to do these two exercises multiple times per day and make it happen, Pre op i was only 98 as Acl repair from 40 years ago was shot and arthritis had set in bad along with bone on bone, Looking forward to even 100-110 soon Awesome video, just what I needed 😎
Up to 95 rom at 11 weeks post op, I ended up doing the MUA at 9 weeks and honestly it was a good thing, got some scar tissue off some nerves and knee zinger’s have subsided
My first knee surgery, my leg blew up like a balloon and bruised. The main pain was getting in bed. It never hurt to walk. I was driving at 6 days( not taking narcotic until later in the day). Riding my horse at 5 weeks. Second knee not as much swelling, but hurt to walk on it for almost three weeks. I was driving at about 8 days, rode my horse at about 6 weeks.
What if your non weight bearing for 6 weeks on the operated knee? Im 2 weeks on from a combined High Tibial Osteotomy and Microfrature procedure. Im doing the PT movements and really pushing it. What sort of range of movement at similar timescales should i strive for.
TKR about 12 years ago. (age 55) Limited bend, great straight! Manipulated and got 120 degrees but with daily, extremely painful rehab, never got to 120 again...stayed at 90 ever since. Can't ride a bike...is it possible that knee is too big? Didn't have a choice years ago! I'm a very small boned person. All suggestions welcome
I had PT, aggressive for 6 weeks, 2/week. One problem is that one nerve that controls dorsiflexion is either pinched at L5/S1 or L4/L5. My neurosurgeon has ordered an EMG, he is sure. My assessments is my dorsiflexion ability is zero. My therapist tries to tell me he fells some muscle tension. I think he’s trying to be positive. I also have drop foot, loss of feeling to the outside of my leg. I have had 10 surgeries, and 4 knees and needed a 6” of femur replaced to get something to attach the new knee to. The new knee is a simple pivot. The surgery was done at a nationally renowned clinic in the mid west. I was unimpressed. I was 30 degrees from 90 degrees at the first day of PT. After 6 weeks I got to about 5 degrees forward of 90 degrees. I have no pain in the knee. My therapist is a young wrestling coach. I’m 75 but have been above average height, weight and strength. I made him really push to get some decent numbers. He did.
I guess you made it clear enough ! BUT ! I'm 3 years out and NO ONE gave me this type of instruction/information . The constant pain has finally diminished some what , BUT , I can best describe my ROM as , I'm JUST barely able to reach my toes in order to trim my nails . From what you said , am I to assume that I am SOL ?? Too late to "improve" my situation ?
Thanks for the info and encouragement . +2 weeks I did my most painful stretching exercises today, and this evening my knee was pain free. So counter intuitive! Greetings from Australia :-)
Will a floor pedometer type of equipment work? I am in process of finding a surgeon. My full expectation is they will recommend tkr. I have had 4 knee surgeries, severe arthritis, torn mcl acl and meniscus with small bakers cyst. I am LMT, will self massage and MFR help? What about quad sparing surgery?
