The goals of this stage are to reduce swelling and restore range of motion. As in the pre-operative stage, this is acheived by using a cold compress to reduce swelling, at the same time as the patient undergoes early exercises to restore the range of knee motion.
Early restoration of knee extension is considered most important. Initially, the heel is propped up with the knee unsupported in order to make the knee extend fully. Full extension of the knee is further encouraged by getting the patient to lie on their front with the knee overhanging the physio bed.
Static quadriceps muscle contractions should be practised every hour, both to help decrease the knee swelling and to start the process of regaining strength. Some surgeons like the patient to use a continuous passive movement (CPM) machine that automatically bends and straightens the knee, encouraging the dispersal of swelling and the restoration of range of movement.
As long as the patient feels well enough following the anaesthetic, they are taught how to get around on crutches by a physiotherapist and a normal walking pattern is encouraged. Rehabilitation exercises are started as soon as possible and, as soon as 70 degrees of knee flexion is possible, static cycling can be initiated.
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