Hi everyone it's 7 weeks since my TKR. Though I lost a week after tripping out of our plastic framed door. Managed to open the scar about 2 ins, luckily the glue they use held the inside of the wound together. Mind it might have been better if the steri strips hadn't been took off that morning. Since leaving hospital I've been winging it in regards to exercising, had 5 mins physio then handed a couple of sheets with very little information on, then shown the door. Most of what I'm doing I've gleaned from the internet. I've a exercise bike but lower legs are too long and can't get anymore height on the seat to use it comfortably. I've a cross trainer lying idle and was wondering if it would be sensible to use. I tried a couple of movements and really felt stretching in the muscles. Then thought it would be better to seek advice before pushing any further, hope someone can help.
Poor you. I think you should master the bike before the cross trainer as it's different movement. What about using cushions to raise seat. that's what I did. You might do well to get one of the pedal cycles, they are quite cheap. Can you not use a gym and if there is one with hydrotherapy pool you could use that. Steam rooms at local pools are usually good to get your muscles working. There are lots of exercise on the web if you google physiotherapy.
Thanks Susan, never thought about a cushion, will certainly give it a try. I'm using an electric heat pad and sometimes stand in shower with the hot jets playing on the muscles, it all helps.
Might be a bit soon. Physio recommended it to me at twelve weeks and it's been a godsend I started with two minutes and then five x 3 a day no problems. Whenever am stiff go on it and get relief . Listen to your body but don't do more harm than good. I would focus on stretching exercises for now.
Hi David I had my TNR 5.3.15 I had about 15 mins physio and like you was thrown out lol wirh nothing but the sheet lol I wouldnt use the cross trainer I think its too soon I basically just did the leg raisers and pulling my knee bent when sitting??? ive got a static bike coming next week but im managing fine. Dont do too much too soon cos we all get there in the end x x
Thanks for your reply's, will chill out even though I think the machines are mocking me :-( I've been doing the exercises I was doing to build up ready for the OP and a couple I've picked up from the internet. I'm retired so no pressure to return to work. But my grandchildren are due to visit, from abroad, for the first time in a year and a half, in July. So want to be fit to take on a 3&5yr old.