KNEE SURGERY RECOVERY Exercises & Tips: MUST HAVE Full Knee Extension!

[@45467377]

THANK YOU! Absolutely the best explanation and instructions for achieving full knee extension. I've subscribed and will be watching all your videos. I'm in PT but no one has provided such a thorough explanation of the mechanics of restoring normal function.

[@kathystclair9485]

Hi Dr. Chris. I am 2 weeks out today of a minimal meniscus tear. The surgeon said I had a lot of arthritis also. I was very disappointed that I was not given any instructions as to any plan of exercising. I had to do the work on my own through utube videos. When I went for post OP visit the surgeon said I should not have been exercising my leg, but said I could start then with leg raises. That was 8 days post operative! I just found your utube videos 2 days ago. Fortunately, I have learned more from you than the surgeon who performed my surgery. I'm 65 and have been determined from day 1 to get back to where I used to be. It's getting cold here in Ohio, so I do feel the effects. I have some good and not so good days, but I can't give up. Thank you so much for your wealth of knowledge!

[@Humantwopointzeroinc]

Not a problem Kathy. My pleasure to help.

[@thomasfk09]

This is such a good video, you do a great job of explaining the "why's" which so many other people fail to do. It's how I learn best and it shows you have a mastery of the subject. Really should have a lot more views, keep it up!

[@danielstamegna2391]

Amen to that! I'm the same way. God bless 🙂

[@deborahbuker9091]

Excellent❤

[@gitashenoy4225]

Thank you DR Chris . I came across your video by chance . I am 11weeks post TKR right knee . I have swelling and pain still in my knee. I am pretty good in flection as that was hammered down . Now I realize how imp Extension is . I will get a terra band ,and lie down too on a table ,to get full extension . Thank you so much for all your videos . I see it many times to do it right . Wish I knew this earlier .

[@jenniferseaman7524]

52 year old female. 5 weeks post op from right total knee replacement surgery. Best video I have seen. A huge help. Well explained. Thank you! Subscribed.

[@queenmearsy]

Same as myself 52, 10 weeks post LTKR, very slow progress, don't think I've been myself hard enough 😥

[@russellsimon9725]

Thanks for this exercise I needed this to get my knee straightened after 4 months and not able to move around comfortable👍🙏

[@pawedngo3823]

Great video @ my 7 th week TKR surgery of the left knee at 52 years

[@dr.taralikatrivedi]

The first time someone explained this “ lower pump” very well, Thanks

[@ashvinimilap]

I am a Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine and Critical care in a Corporate Hospital in India My mother is also a doctor,aged 85 She is 7 weeks post TKR This is a brilliant video, probably the most comprehensive that I have seen Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and wisdom. Regards Dr Ashvini Milap MD

[@catherinewatson6495]

I had my TKR right knee in February of this year. The first 2 therapists were ok but after I was done with my therapy I felt the same. So I've decided to switch this facility and went with another one but for the same company because when I went back to work with restrictions it didn't help at all with my walking these hallways at work. Anyway I'm glad that I switch because I know without a shadow of a doubt that I did the right thing. I feel confident in knowing that I will get my knee bending at 120 + ° and knee extensions back 100° for sure this time.

[@donellagoree9074]

This totally makes me realize that I didn’t get the Right PT after my torn meniscus repair 😭 guess I’ll be my own PT now. Thank You my right leg 🦵🏾 hasn’t been straight since my surgery almost done a year ago 😞

[@richardprice3092]

I never comment on videos but I have to make an exception here.... this is just the most thorough and helpful video I could have wished for. I'm currently recovering from a PCL tear, Lateral Collateral Ligament tear, Miniscus tear and a few fractures and getting a full extension has evaded me so far. It is so painful and so disheartening when I can't get it right. This video has not only given me reassurance that it is this tough for everyone, but also given some genuinely awesome tips on how to progress it. Genuinely, thank you 🙏

[@marteck319]

Thank you. First TKR 1 March 24 range of motion great and no pain. 6 Aug second TKR having trouble with total knee extension -10° 3 weeks out. Will be doing your exercises.

[@dorothyseitz8319]

Dr Chris. Life saver ! I’m 4.5 weeks post right medial meniscectomy. I’m a big Yoga buff and knew that I needed that knee extension/hyperextension. I started the exercises using the band and WOW getting back to normal. I just completed 8 sessions of PT and extension/hyperextension exercises were not advised. I’m more that pleased with your video instructions !

[@CharlieTechie]

Excellent detailed explanation of the issue concerning leg extension, best I have heard. You are a great couch.

[@JB05]

I'm 8 days into recovery and rehab from TKR, for two months prior to surgery up until now I've watched dozens upon dozens of videos on knee surgery recovery. While most of them do provide helpful information a few go out of their way to try to be funny and entertaining, this one is the best video I've watched so far and I will be looking into other video's by you Dr Chris. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

[@Robbielazar]

Keep working out guys!!! Never give up

[@CraigDeitchman]

Your tutorial is by far the best I have seen and I have been on utube for a month looking for best practices after knee surgery, I especially like that you say it’s up to me to get full mobility not to just rely on my physical therapist

[@gilesweeden4201]

Thank you - this is a very well structured video!

[@jeffmartinaz]

Excellent. Best video and explanation I've heard. I'm 3 weeks out from bilateral total knee replacements. I'm feeling good about my extension on both knees, but I'm still very conscious about the importance. Thanks for your expert advice, Dr.

[@AIRTRK1]

(29)

[@brianvincent5662]

Very informative. I get so much more information from videos like this than from my personal physical therapist and Knee surgeon. You rock

[@davidnevarez5802]

Did these today to help with my left leg and I just want to thank you for this video.

[@rickthebaker9379]

Very informative video, thank you! This is my second tkr. The pain, swelling and lack of progress with ROM is disheartening. Your exercises and explanations are very helpful. Diving in now!

[@Humantwopointzeroinc]

Let's get it Rick. It is a slog at times, but these exercises will help to improve your outcomes.

[@starjones7233]

Thank you so much Doctor Chris for all your help. I'm so glad I ran across this video. I had my knee replacement in April had problems with my blood pressure so I stay in in patient rehab for a month so my outpatient therapy was delayed a little now August and I'm still on a walker I think I can do it now that I've watched this video I think you just saved me from manipulation thank God for you and your knowledge great video smooches to you.

[@a191015]

So far you’re the only doctor that makes sense. I hyper extended my knee just by standing and now it is swollen and can’t get full flexion I’m going to give these exercises a try and go pick up a stretch band and start using it. Thanks for the great video and great advice👍

[@LMMLR4]

This Ortho Surgeon is awesome! A gold mine of information for me. 32 years post skiing rupture and reconstuction of my ACL and MCL in 1990. A 5 hour surgery and 10 months of physicial therapy. Now at age 57, I am 4 weeks post total knee replacement. I am having problems with hard constant swelling over the old scar incision area. I am shy of symmetrical extension because I am hypermobile in my joints. Dr. Raynor if you read this. Is my goal to match the hypermobile hyperextended side? You are the first resource on the internet and in person that prioritized Extension. Thank you. It gets overwhelming and intimidating to try and get all the recommendations in the first 6 weeks while I am so swollen. You explain my situation exactly. I need to work on extension and gait mechanics.

[@Humantwopointzeroinc]

Linda, although you are hypermobile on the uninjured side, it is normal for you and it is the degree of extension around which your particular gait pattern is based. So yes, you are looking to obtain that similar level of extension in your operative leg. If you do not, your gait will not be symmetrical and this will cause problems with strength, stability, and fluid management in your operative leg. Symmetrical extension should be your goal.

[@LMMLR4]

@@Humantwopointzeroinc Thank you for the clarification.

[@cheahd]

This is the best explanation I have heard thus far, thanks doc

[@krissy5394]

I’m almost 3 weeks post op of ACL surgery where they did a quadricep autograft. I’m a active 45 year old woman, not an athlete but in construction, snowboard, ride dirt bikes and garden on my knees. I have been going to PT twice a week and they say the swelling in my knee is normal at this stage but I’m behind on the leg extension expectations. I have sharp pains below my knee every time I try to stand with my foot flat, engage my quads to pull my knee cap back while on crutches. I try it and have to stop immediately. I’m not giving up despite being on the brink of tears from frustration. My PT knows this and tries exercises with me that push me harder than I would at home and I’m always in tears. Then I get IFC to engage my quad muscles, followed by ice and stem for 10 minutes with both legs on a bolster to elevate. The rest of the day I’m beat both mentally and physically. Any words of wisdom or different stretches I can do at home? I’m so worried I’m hindering my quality of life for years to come. And while my swelling is normal with no fluid drained at my recheck with the PA I still can barely bend my knee and the entire leg gets heavy, it throbs and my foot turns deeper red when I walk around either in or out of my 0 degree brace while on crutches for longer than a few minutes. Should I be concerned? The PT and PA don’t seem to be concerned. I’m very scared and frustrated but keep doing home PT 3-4 times per day and ice afterward. Thank you for your time.

[@melchuck2]

Thank you for your in depth explanation of why full extension is SO important! After 2 ACL recons 22 years ago (1st one was botched), meniscus repair, & debriedment, my Ortho’s were happy I got to 3 (degrees?) extension, even though my non-operative healthy knee is a bit hypoflexed at -3(?) flexion. I was extremely athletic, running, tennis, skiing, biking, soccer, backpacking & bouldering, & PE teacher as a vocation. Now I am facing a total knee replacement because I’ve lost all stability and function in operative knee. The only things I can do now is walk, & mountain bike. My passion is skiing but the weakness in my knee/leg is alarming, all because my right quads don’t fire like my left quads, even though I cycle, it isn’t working ALL of muscles surrounding my contorted leg. I will try working on getting back full extension. Is it possible after all this time??

[@OHDANNYB0Y]

Thank you Doctor Raynor! I really appreciate this in depth look at "knee hyperextension" after surgery! I am very concerned with whether or not I will ever return to full range of motion; hyperextension in particular. It's been just 84 hours (3½ days) since my right side total knee replacement surgery. During that time I did have knowledge of "bridging," but didn't do it at that time because it was far too painful & I didn't recognize the urgency. However, after watching your video, I feel as if I have lost critical time in trying to regain that R.O.M.. Of course, all I can do now is give it my best from this point forward. Hopefully that will be enough.

[@Hann61669]

I've worked construction and other heavy work jobs and the amount of people that will never afford this is sad. They're way too busy to even watch this free video

[@CR-cl2vx]

Best video on the subject, wish I had found it earlier, nicely articulated and demonstrated

[@Mylifejourney2023]

Oh my gosh this makes me feel so much better about how uncomfortable getting my knee straight is!! I have to hold back tears haha!

[@Align12]

By far the best video that helped me regain full function after knee replacement. Thank you!

[@JJPhilosophy]

You are truly an expert, thank you🙏🏿

[@Brenda-xw3fr]

Very helpful. Id like to mention when using stretch band its much safer to hold onto a counter or dresser or chair back and to be very careful stepping out of the band. Hold on!

[@ChannelLeslieMu]

I've watched several videos today after a TKR back in November and still having pain and limping. This makes a lot of sense. I'll be trying this immediately. Thanks!!!

[@rolandi715]

Thank you. So i’ve my right knee injury since 2014 & i’ve just recently trying to match the ROM of my left knee. This is very helpful. Because as an avid gym goer. I’ll be trying this in the gym

[@williamd2890]

I had knee surgery and I was told that I didn’t need physic or anything was in February and I have had to have my knee drained every second week, since March. I would never say who my surgeon was cause he is a good man, but I have not been able to work in 5 months I live an hour away from Ottawa. Not being able to walk properly play some ball wth my daughter or even go for walks and bike rides from the pain and the swelling. Every day is a struggle to stay positive and have positive outlook. Love the viideos thank you

[@Humantwopointzeroinc]

wow. well try these exercises and if you need more help, our physios are available and even do phone consults. Can't think that you are destined to be suffering now. We've helped A LOT of people, just saying.

[@williamd2890]

Thank you so much for replying back to my message, I’m actually waiting for my doc to call me so I could send a referral. I have heard nothing but excellent things.

[@emiledin2183]

what kind of knee surgery was performed? I can't imagine a knee surgery that wouldn't require physical therapy afterwards.

[@williamd2890]

I I had orthoscopic surgery torn meniscus ligament damage chipped bone . He told me that it was one of the worst knees he has seen in a long time. I had an MRI done on 21 July and I didn’t have an MRI before my surgery. I haven’t worked in 6months and it’s my career. I’m just waiting to find out my results to see where I go from there. I also had my knee drained again on July 15th. I really appreciate you reading and replying back to messages.

[@emiledin2183]

@@williamd2890 What kind of exercises are you doing for your knee??

[@davidlandry5090]

Thanks for this video. Prior to surgery my extension was only 15. 8 weeks post op today and I am getting there with extension about 4 to 5 degrees. It’s a struggle but I am making progress. Hoping to get to zero by the end of January.

[@Humantwopointzeroinc]

Hope some of this info can help. Keep up the good work!

[@AngieAllaire]

Sooo grateful to find these videos! Thank you Dr. Chris and team! You rock!

[@Humantwopointzeroinc]

Glad we could be of service. Make sure to share with anyone else you think could use the help. #movementismedicine

[@kellyPTA]

Great video! I am a therapist and will be incorporating this discussion into my pt education! Thank you! 🙏

[@bentleyrayy]

Thank you for this information I had my meniscus an ACL repaired and I’m am currently about 1 degree off and it’s been about 4 months

[@joedionisio3775]

Hi Samantha it help me to loosen my knee steepness in the morning. Thank you ❤

[@jiniefox6126]

Wonderful explanation and very clear. Thank you

[@maryd7081]

I’m 8 weeks post tkr still can’t straighten my leg. Why wouldn’t my physical therapist tell me this. Thank you. I’m going to start this today !!

[@jou3507]

I love you Doctor! Thank you so much.👋😘

[@cfrcrd5759]

Thank you so much. You put these exercises and the reason I have no extension into lamen’s terms so that know I understand what the hell is wrong with my leg. I’m going to start right away . Btw, I’m 10 weeks out so I hope I can still do these exercises and they will make a difference.

[@sds.speaks]

I’m 8 weeks post op ACL and meniscus surgery. There is still extension deficit and a 130 degrees of flexion. I’m walking with a slight bent knee. And there is swelling- now I know why. I shall do the exercises now. It’s not too late, is it? Thanks for all round informative video.

[@Humantwopointzeroinc]

Nope and thanks and keep working. Glad we could help!

[@marcmotley5927]

Excellent Doctor !!!

[@susanblake9489]

You’re great, wish you were my PT therapist

[@atlfunksoul]

Awesome video.. You encouraged me to try these exercises right away

[@lindaincolorado2646]

Thank you! 6 or 7 is what I'm at every time I exercise. I prefer to take pain meds if it's above that just to get through the exercises. But thanks for the help and support! I am 8 weeks past knee replacement and knee Bend is at 95 degrees and extension is at 2 degrees. Looking at manipulation if I can't get the bend better in 6 weeks.

[@vickieworthington8263]

Wow! Thank you for such a thorough explanation of the importance of full knee extension. I would like to get a theraband like the one you showed. Do you have a linc so I can get the correct one? Thank you again. I'm 4 months out on a TKR. I struggled at first on both the extension and flexsion, but am doing better now. I want to make sure I maintain what I have and do the work I need to do at home. Thank you again.

[@iemberwaribo7465]

This was very informative, and you made me laugh, thank you!

[@joelicitra3336]

Agreed great video. The best I've seen!

[@craigmellin6217]

Brilliant 👏. Awesome job

[@ireneblana6041]

Thank you Dr. Chris

[@garyp1432]

Your a star man, thanks for such a great explanation

[@msmink1141]

Excellent- thank you

[@gale1906]

Recovering from meniscus root tear repair. Thanks so much for great info on how to get my leg straight again!

[@dalejephson990]

really good explanations that have put my mind at rest

[@juanp1089]

Great Lesson

[@aleksandar736]

Because of your videos I'm starting to love rehab job men :D

[@emaddarawsheh7420]

Golden content indeed....you covered everything bro

[@favouritka]

Thank you for educating video.

[@elenat.6180]

Thank you! Excellent video !

[@321bbr0wn]

Sooo helpful. Thank you

[@romanhernz9209]

Great video ....great detail explanation....thanks so much for your experience !

[@aileen-eros]

Thank u for this video! Added to my rehab playlist. I'm day 2 post op after meniscus and Hoffa syndrome repair. I wish I lived in Ottawa so I could come train and do pt with u but thanks for sharing your knowledge on this platform.

[@taisking7599]

Oh heck ya! The patient has to put the work in! Daily habits ✨️

[@themamma341]

This is so helpful and informative, which was just what I needed. Thank you for sharing the reasons and the how tos!

[@anthonyclay8158]

Great video again

[@annewatman677]

I think this video is wonderful! I had about 4-5 months of PT after a lateral plateau fracture of the tibia and surgery. I don’t think nearly enough emphasis was put on extension, even though I had exercises. I put a lot more emphasis on bending, but after talking to my surgeon recently, he recommended working on extension. I was hoping someone might have some ideas when we don’t access to a table.

[@mollydouce3715]

Coffee table, the top landing of stairs, long bench like for a picnic table are a few ideas

[@annewatman677]

@@mollydouce3715 I found a chest that worked, and since then, I’ve made A LOT of progress. I think it’s something that takes time, and you just have to keep working at it. I’m guessing a lot of healing and progress is made just by getting out and doing stuff. But, I still exercise every other day.

[@krockit5071]

I have issues with both knee extension and flexion. This is a great video for extension. What are good exercises for regaining knew flexion?

[@drlorrie1019]

Love yr video. Getting ready for TNR. Will it help to reactive exercises prior to surgery? Thx

[@Humantwopointzeroinc]

It is a great time to start before surgery.

[@gosthardy8203]

I love how you explain you are not boring :) I am at almost 2 weeks post acl surgery can I start doing them ? I have pain in my knee cap while doing exercises which includes bending or squuezing activating the quads , knee cap how can I release the pain ?

[@mihalistzagkarakis8010]

my surgery was 5 years ago , and my knee still doesnt have full extension , thats because i didnt treat it ! still playing soccer tho , is it possible to recover even now ?

[@hepebaste]

Thanks Doc

[@Jarles-vq5fd]

What kind of fabric Thera band is that you used. I only have the rubber ones and I’m afraid it will rub against my skin and hair on my leg. Where can I get it on Amazon. Great explanation and video. Thank you

[@rodolfoferraz8181]

Thank you very much

[@TopBoi93]

Does it matter if it’s above or below the knee cap (the resistance band)? I heard people say different things, some say above and some say below?

[@suddenlysolo2170]

I am pre-op with surgery scheduled for September. I have not had full extension of my right knee in many years due to the arthritis. Is it possible to recover what is alrady lost?

[@BretBaber]

I’m gonna look into buying one of these straps. Do you have a flexion video too?

[@chantaledeneus9160]

thank you so much

[@tjtommyj]

Thank you

[@gerardoarriaga8200]

These knee extension exercises, are they're also suitable for people after knee replacement? If it is how many reps for each exercise?

[@shannonfogarty]

I’ve been watching both your channels and finding it so helpful. I’m 6 weeks in to a moderate PCL/PLC tear and lower level ACL/MCL tear. I’m pre surgery, and don’t yet have a date. I’m in physio therapy 2x weekly and the rest at home. I haven’t been given exercise to work on leg extensions due to the plc tear, but I’m very concerned. Is there anything I could safely do to help with leg extension without causing any further injury to the plc? Thanks🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@younesbenaddi4721]

I didn't have a surgery but I have the same symptoms (I can fully extend the knee, and sometimes flexing it is also painful) My other knee (which can fully extend) also get swollen do you think, it is due to the knee which cannot extend Thank you for the video, it is so interesting, I will try those exercise

[@simplytruth9729]

Can I use these to get back stability for a non surgical ACL tear? Thanks

[@RETlREDAVIATOR]

Thanks Doc! I think my pump is inefficient due to the continuous, barely visible, swelling and slight numbness on the inner right knee area and inner thigh! 14:05 Reps

[@ninajones115]

When do you need to start those exercises

[@henryhurwitz9734]

Dr. Chris. Can't locate those long 2" looped therabands anywhere. What brand or where do you get them? great video

[@havefunandbikestuffOver40]

Very awesome information. I had 3 tibia surgery where shin is. I needed this today...UPDATE: did 3 sets of both active and passive Knee extensions w reps for the active portion and my leg feels more stable and stronger now. Will update again when all good again. 👍

[@kivarbrewer]

Hi. Any updates? I'm 10 weeks post op tibia plateau and still working to get full extension. Found this video today and looking forward to starting this in addition to PT

[@tsamp14]

Couple of questions…. 1. Does osteoarthritis cause this? 2. If you don’t have ACL surgery and can’t get full extension, do these exercises still work?

[@stephencostello1296]

Great question Troy and I am similar to you. I hope someone can answer this for you and myself.

[@AmusingMichele]

I had acl surgery 16 days ago and it hurts to straighten right in my knee!!! Is that ok?

[@Humantwopointzeroinc]

Sorry to have missed your comment before Michele. Hope you are doing better.

[@AmusingMichele]

@@Humantwopointzeroinc yes it's perfect now, thanks

[@jtm1129]

Is there a video on flexi on? My extension is fine . I’ve got a broken femur with very stiff hamstring.

[@donnagreulich2378]

can this work if your NON-extension has been in place for five years?

[@ChrisRaynorMD]

It will certainly be more difficult but I do think that it is possible with consistent effort.

[@salimshaaabam966]

so nice..but mine is swelling out of meniscus tear no surgery yet but no full rang of motion.can this exercise help?thans

[@Humantwopointzeroinc]

This exercise will still help to some degree.