During Week 3 of your recovery from total knee replacement surgery, it is important to focus on strengthening exercises to regain mobility and function in your knee. Your PT may recommend continued performance of the range of motion exercises performed in week 1 and 2 along with the addition of strengthening exercises presented in week 3. These exercises will help increase muscle strength, improve flexibility, and accelerate your overall recovery process.

Some key exercises to incorporate into your routine during Week 3 include hip kicks, heel slides, step ups, and knee flexion and extension stretches. It is important to perform these exercises regularly and gradually increase the intensity as your strength improves. Additionally, incorporating low-impact cardiovascular exercises such as stationary biking can help improve circulation and aid in your recovery.

Key Lesson Concepts:

• Focus on strengthening exercises to regain mobility and function in your knee
• Incorporate hip kicks, heel slides, step ups, and knee flexion and extension stretchesinto your routine
• Gradually increase the intensity of exercises and consider adding low-impact cardiovascular exercises to aid in recovery

This post-operative routine should be reviewed by your physical therapist or orthopedic surgeon before performing. This is not a substitute for your ongoing physical therapy. This postoperative routine serves as an example of what someone may expect to perform during the first 6 weeks following a total knee replacement. The recovery process following a total knee replacement may be unique for everyone, so follow your PT or physicians recommendations over the material presented in this course.