11 August 2025
Physiotherapy After Knee Replacement: Exercises and Milestones
Step-by-step physiotherapy after knee replacement surgery. Learn swelling control techniques, safe exercises, range of motion goals, and rehabilitation milestones with Dr. Abhijit Kale in Mumbai.
Physiotherapy is the engine of recovery after total knee replacement. Surgery provides the new joint, but structured rehab restores strength, flexibility, and confidence. Here's a safe, progressive framework most patients follow after surgery with guidance from Dr. Abhijit Kale's physiotherapy team in Mumbai.
Week 0–2: Control & Early Motion
- Icing and elevation: Apply ice 4–6 times daily and keep the leg elevated to control swelling.
- Range of Motion Goal: Bend the knee from 0° (straight) to 90°+ by the end of week 2.
- Exercises: Heel slides, quad sets, straight-leg raises.
- Walking: Short, frequent walks using a walker or crutches; focus on a smooth gait pattern.
💡 Tip: Swelling control is just as important as exercise in the first two weeks.
Week 3–6: Strength & Balance
- Strengthening Exercises: Step-ups, mini-squats to a chair, resistance band work for quadriceps and hamstrings.
- Cardio/Endurance: Stationary cycling helps reduce stiffness and gradually improves endurance.
- Balance Training: Begin simple drills to regain stability and confidence in daily movements.
By week 6, many patients can walk independently indoors and resume light daily activities.
Week 7–12: Return to Activity
- Walking Progression: Longer outdoor walks with increasing distance and terrain variety.
- Balance Drills: Advanced stability exercises (single-leg stands, supported lunges).
- Functional Strength: Exercises mimicking daily activities—climbing stairs, sitting-to-standing transitions.
By 12 weeks, most patients are comfortable with community walking and recreational activities like swimming or yoga modifications.
Why Physiotherapy Matters
Skipping or delaying rehab risks stiffness, weakness, and reduced implant longevity. A structured physiotherapy plan ensures:
- Faster pain relief
- Improved joint flexibility
- Better long-term function
- Safe return to daily independence
Resources: Home Exercises • Physiotherapy • Contact to schedule a personalized rehabilitation program with Dr. Abhijit Kale’s expert physiotherapy team in Mumbai.
FAQs
How often should I do physiotherapy after knee replacement?
Initially, daily sessions (in hospital or clinic) are recommended. After discharge, most patients continue with 2–3 supervised sessions per week plus daily home exercises.
What if I can’t bend my knee enough by week 2?
Don’t panic—progress varies. Focus on gentle, frequent exercises and swelling control. Your physiotherapist may add manual therapy or advanced techniques to help.
When can I climb stairs normally again?
Most patients manage stairs by 4–6 weeks, with physiotherapy guidance. Proper technique (up with the good leg, down with the operated leg) ensures safety until strength equalizes.
Takeaway: Physiotherapy transforms a knee replacement from surgery into success. With Dr. Abhijit Kale's guided rehabilitation in Mumbai, patients achieve smoother recovery, stronger function, and a confident return to everyday life.