In the U. S. hundreds of thousands of individuals undergo joint replacement surgery annually (over 770,000 combined hip/knee). The actual number of joint replacements needed is probably significantly less. That is if individuals are proactive on the front end in prevention. Subsequently, physical therapists routinely answer questions about exercise after joint replacements. As you may expect, physical therapists are in favor of exercise.

Barring any medical related restrictions from your physician, most exercises are safe. If you are concerned, please consult with your orthopedic surgeon or primary care provider (for restrictions) before starting a program. If all clear medically, then start with a cardiovascular regimen, which may include: walking, stationary cycling or swimming and build up to the stair stepper or elliptical if so desired. It is possible and safe to exercise on the elliptical following a joint replacement.

Non-impact exercise is safe to do on replaced knees or hips provided you have sufficient flexibility and strength. Running after hip or knee replacements is highly discouraged unless you desire to have the procedure done again. But do not forget the strength component as well. Strength, flexibility and endurance are all important aspects for good health.

Those undergoing joint replacements will often deal with pain and reduced mobility for several years before surgery, and thus lose a significant amount of strength. It is not possible to regain all your functional strength after a joint replacement procedure in the 6-12 weeks of physical therapy you may undergo after surgery. It takes 8 or more weeks for a young athlete to begin to build strength, and even longer as an individual ages. Reacquiring strength after surgery takes months (even years) of hard work (see here), and maintenance of said strength is vital if one wishes to resume a higher level of function/quality of life. Do not think recovery will be quick and easy. It is the old adage of…use it or lose it.

Do you want to struggle with stairs or rising from a chair? If not then get moving on what you think are waste of time exercises. If you need a refresher, send me an email andrew@zangpt.com and I can point you in the right direction.

Remember it is possible to continue with an active lifestyle after one of these procedures if you work hard.