Knee Replacement - Pre operatively

Once the patient has to decided to go ahead with a knee replacement (partial or full) it will be to their advantage if they try to strengthen their leg muscles prior to surgery,so the patient is advised at first contact to begin the following exercises.

1. Move feet up and down from the ankles.
2. Move feet in circles clockwise and then anti-clockwise.
3. Lift leg up straight a few inches off the bed. Hold for 5 seconds and then lower down      gently.
4. Lift leg up straight and then turn foot inwards. Hold for 5 seconds and then lower.
5. Lift leg up straight and then turn foot outwards. Hold for 5 seconds and then lower.
6. Put a pillow under the knee. Keeping thigh in contact with pillow brace your knee so that      the heel comes off the bed. Pull your foot towards you, hold for a few seconds and then      relax.
7. Bend knee up as far as you can hold for a few seconds and then straighten it out again.
8. Lift slightly and open leg as far as you can, and close again.

Carry out the exercise programme 2-3 times a day. Repeat each exercise 10 times.

By carrying out a programme of strengthening exercises their muscles will be in optimal condition for the surgery, and as these exercises are carried out immediately post operatively they will already be familiar with them. It will also help if the patient can lose any extra weight they may have. Some medicines can complicate surgery such as HRT, Aspirin, Warfarin and even some herbal remedies and so the patient must check their prescriptions with their doctor so any adjustments can be made well in time. For example HRT should be stopped for at least one month prior to surgery

The Consultant will need to see any recent X-rays so the patient should bring them with them to their first appointment at the hospital. The X-rays may also be done at Saint James Hospital prior to consultation.