The 10 Best Exercises to Perform Before Knee Replacement Surgery

Preparing for knee replacement surgery can be just as important as the procedure itself. By strengthening the muscles around your knee and improving your flexibility, you can make your recovery smoother, reduce post-surgery pain, and regain mobility more quickly. Here are the 10 best exercises to help you prepare. As always, consult with your physical therapist before starting any new exercise program.

1. Quadriceps Sets

Strengthening your quadriceps, the muscles on the front of your thigh, is essential for knee stability. To perform this exercise, sit or lie down with your leg extended. Tighten your thigh muscle, pressing the back of your knee down into the floor. Hold for 5 seconds, then relax. Repeat 10-15 times per leg.

2. Straight Leg Raises

This exercise strengthens both your quadriceps and hip flexors without placing pressure on your knee joint. Lie on your back with one knee bent and the other leg straight. Tighten your thigh muscle and slowly lift the straight leg about 12 inches off the ground. Hold for a few seconds, then lower back down. Repeat 10-15 times on each leg.

3. Ankle Pumps

Ankle pumps improve circulation in your legs, which helps reduce swelling and promotes healing after surgery. Lie on your back and flex your feet, moving your ankles up and down. Aim for 20-30 repetitions per foot.

4. Heel Slides

Heel slides help increase knee flexibility and range of motion, which is essential for post-surgery movement. Lie on your back with both legs straight. Slide one heel up toward your buttocks, bending your knee, then slowly slide it back down. Repeat 10-15 times per leg.

5. Hamstring Curls

Strengthening your hamstrings, the muscles at the back of your thigh, improves knee support. Stand while holding onto a sturdy surface for balance. Lift one foot toward your buttocks, bending your knee as far as is comfortable. Hold briefly, then lower. Repeat 10-15 times per leg.

6. Seated Knee Extensions

This exercise is great for knee mobility and strengthening the quadriceps. Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Slowly extend one leg out straight, tightening your thigh muscle. Hold for 5 seconds, then lower. Repeat 10-15 times per leg.

7. Calf Raises

Calf raises strengthen the calves, which help support knee function and improve leg stability. Stand next to a wall or sturdy surface for balance. Lift your heels off the ground to stand on your toes, then slowly lower. Repeat 10-15 times.

8. Side Leg Raises

This exercise targets the outer hip muscles, which are important for balance and stability in the knee joint. Lie on one side, keeping your bottom leg bent for support. Lift your top leg straight up, keeping your knee straight. Hold briefly at the top, then lower. Repeat 10-15 times per leg.

9. Mini Squats

Mini squats build strength in your quadriceps and glutes, which are key for knee stability. Stand with your feet hip-width apart, holding onto a surface for support if needed. Bend your knees slightly, lowering just a few inches. Keep your back straight and your knees over your toes, then return to standing. Repeat 10-15 times.

10. Glute Bridges

This exercise strengthens your glutes, hamstrings, and core, all of which contribute to better knee support. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat. Tighten your core and lift your hips up to create a straight line from your shoulders to your knees. Hold briefly, then lower. Repeat 10-15 times.

Final Thoughts

Performing these exercises before your knee replacement surgery can make a significant difference in your recovery. By building strength and flexibility around your knee joint, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother, faster rehabilitation process. At Victory Physical Therapy, we’re here to help guide you through pre- and post-surgery exercises tailored to your specific needs. Contact us to learn more about preparing for knee replacement surgery and making your recovery as efficient as possible.