Recovering from surgery often involves specific exercises to regain strength and confidence in the affected area. The following exercises, demonstrated in a helpful video, are designed to promote weight bearing and improve range of motion, particularly after leg surgery.

1. Weight Shifting Exercises:

Position: Surgical leg forward, nonsurgical leg back, using a kitchen counter for support.
Action: Shift weight from one leg to the other, lifting the front toe and back heel alternately.
Goal: To build confidence in weight bearing on the surgical leg.
2. Progressing to Weight Bearing:

Action: Gradually shift weight onto the surgical leg and try lifting the nonsurgical leg.
Variation: Switch legs and repeat the weight shifts, progressing to bending the surgical knee.
Purpose: Prepares the joint for absorbing weight and normalizes motion for walking.
3. Full Weight Bearing and Leg Bending:

Action: Load the surgical leg while bending the nonsurgical leg.
Next Step: Bend the surgical leg while keeping the knee against a cabinet to prevent hip flexing, then extend the hip to activate the hamstring and glute.
4. Sideways Weight Shifting:

Position: Stand sideways to the counter, surgical leg away from it.
Action: Practice shifting weight front to back, and if comfortable, let go of the countertop.
Goal: To normalize the heel, midfoot, and toeoff gait pattern.
5. Side Leg Raises and Hip Hikes:

Exercise: Perform side leg raises with the surgical leg, followed by hip hikes.
Purpose: Strengthens both sides of the body, surgical and nonsurgical.
Repetition: Typically two sets of 10 repetitions, but focus more on exposure and experience rather than count.
Conclusion:
These exercises are not just about physical rehabilitation; they also play a crucial role in overcoming the fear and uncertainty that often accompany postsurgical recovery. By gradually exposing the body to different movements and sensations, patients can build confidence and facilitate a smoother return to full functionality.



About the author:
Hi, my name is Anthony (Tony) Maritato, PT. I am a licensed physical therapist and owner of Total Therapy Solutions. I have specialized in helping clients recover from total knee replacement surgery since 2002 and have created this video to help YOU.

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