ACL reconstruction surgery may lead to a loss of knee extension. Learn about the importance of restoring knee extension range of motion and discover effective exercises and tips for rehabilitation after ACL reconstruction at Arunalaya Advanced Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Patel Nagar, Delhi.
Introduction:Restoring full knee extension range of motion (ROM) is crucial after ACL reconstruction surgery to prevent functional deficits and reduce the risk of long-term complications. At Arunalaya Advanced Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Patel Nagar, Delhi, we emphasize the importance of addressing knee extension deficits early in the rehabilitation process. In this article, we will explore effective exercises and tips to restore knee extension ROM after ACL reconstruction.
Understanding Knee Extension Loss After ACL Reconstruction:Loss of knee extension can occur following ACL reconstruction due to hamstring contracture and quadriceps inactivation. Failure to regain full extension during the initial recovery phase can lead to long-term complications and functional limitations. Therefore, it is essential to focus on restoring knee extension range of motion as part of the rehabilitation program.
Exercises to Improve Knee Extension Range of Motion:1. Heel Raise: Sit with your leg straight and raise your heel off the ground, focusing on full extension.2. Quads Squeeze with Heel Raise: Sit upright and wrap a towel around your heel. Squeeze your quadriceps and use the towel to assist in straightening your leg. Hold for 30-60 seconds and then relax.3. Elevated Leg Extensions on Chair: Sit on a chair with your leg extended straight in front of you, ensuring there is no support under your knee. Maintain the leg extension for a set duration.4. Prone Hang: Lie on your stomach on a bed or table, allowing the leg to hang off the edge. Relax and let your leg straighten to promote knee extension.5. Walking Straight: While walking, focus on fully extending your leg and straightening your knee with each step. Consider walking backward as well to promote knee extension during motion.6. Terminal Knee Extension with Band: Attach a resistance band to a stationary object and loop it around your hamstring, just above the knee. Push your knee back against the band to straighten your leg as much as possible.7. Squats with Calf Raises: Perform squats while coming up onto your toes and performing calf raises. This exercise helps promote knee extension while strengthening the lower limb muscles.8. Hamstring Stretch: Stretch your hamstring by sitting on the edge of a bed or chair and extending one leg straight in front of you. Lean forward from your hips, keeping your back straight, and feel the stretch in the back of your thigh.9. Slant Board: Utilize a slant board to elongate your calves and promote knee extension. Begin with a gentle incline and gradually increase the angle as your extension improves.
Tips for Effective Rehabilitation:1. Complete the knee extension exercises several times a day to promote ROM improvement.2. Listen to your body and avoid overstretching or pushing beyond your limits.3. Don't neglect knee flexion exercises; a balanced approach is crucial for overall ROM improvement.4. Stay consistent with your rehabilitation program and follow the guidance of your physiotherapist to achieve optimal results.
Conclusion:At Arunalaya Advanced Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Patel Nagar, Delhi, we recognize the significance of restoring knee extension ROM after ACL reconstruction. Through a comprehensive rehabilitation program that includes targeted exercises and personalized guidance, our experienced physiotherapists help individuals regain full knee extension and optimize their recovery. If you have undergone ACL reconstruction surgery and are experiencing knee extension deficits, contact Arunalaya Advanced Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation for expert care and effective physiotherapy techniques to restore knee extension ROM and enhance your overall rehabilitation journey.