Post-Joint Replacement Exercise Guide: Your Path to Recovery

Pre-Exercise Guidelines

• Wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing
• Exercise on a firm, flat surface
• Use a mat or carpeted area for floor exercises
• Keep ice pack ready for post-exercise treatment

Phase 1: Initial Exercises (Week 1-2)

Ankle Pumps

• Lie flat on your back
• Point toes toward ceiling, then floor
• Perform 10 repetitions, 3 times daily

Heel Slides

• Lie on back with legs straight
• Slowly slide heel toward buttocks
• Hold 5 seconds
• Return to starting position
• Repeat 10 times

Quad Sets

• Sit with operated leg straight
• Tighten thigh muscles
• Hold 5-10 seconds
• Perform 10 repetitions hourly

Phase 2: Progressive Exercises (Week 3-6)

Standing Exercises

• Knee bends (mini squats)
• Side leg raises
• Supported single-leg stance

Walking Program

• Start with 5-10 minutes
• Gradually increase duration
• Use walking aids as prescribed

Warning Signs

Stop exercising and contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

• Severe pain
• Excessive swelling
• Warmth or redness around joint
• Fever

Progress Tracking

Maintain an exercise log noting:

• Exercise performed
• Repetitions completed
• Pain levels (1-10 scale)
• Duration of activity