Creating A New Regimen After Knee Surgery

[InAFit]

I had total knee replacement back in late April, and I'm still undergoing physical therapy for stiffness (scar tissue) in that knee.

My physical therapist has cleared me for doing workouts again, but this time I have to create a fitness regimen that will address my limited flexion/extension in my right knee, the arthritis in my left knee and my loss of weight and muscle mass (down to 140 lbs from 160 lbs) from post-surgery...

The new regimen would be done in a basic home gym (dumbbells, weight bench, basic elliptical, chest expander, stationary bike).

My goals are: regain muscle mass, weight and get toned. I'm 68 years old, 5'11"" 140 lbs. (I had worked out at home for a number of years before my right knee gave out in February).

Can members suggest what routines (weight training, aerobic, etc.) would be best for creating a new regimen appropriate to my situation?

Thanks!

 

[PLB_old]

Is your physiotherapist not helping you build an exercise program? They should be or they should be referring to to someone who is qualified to build one for you, at the very minimum, they should be giving you a sheet of paper with exercises that are approved by them. Unfortunately, for the health of your knee, finding out online might not be the best thing to do.

 

[InAFit]

The physical therapist has given me plenty of routines to do to to improve flexion & extension
for my operated knee, but not for a new overall regimen...

But I'll see if I can get a referral to an area trainer...

Meanwhile, I'm sure there are some routines I can find online; I'd run them by the PT before adding them
to my regimen, though.

 

[Jrahien]

That really would be the best way to do it. Your physio is key in matter, since everyone is going to need some individuality in their routines after a surgery. Unfortunately, no one online can give you a great base to start at without knowing your specific needs and limitations, but if you bring ideas to your physio, he or she will definitely clarify a good regimen for you.

 

[PLB_old]

That really would be the best way to do it. Your physio is key in matter, since everyone is going to need some individuality in their routines after a surgery. Unfortunately, no one online can give you a great base to start at without knowing your specific needs and limitations, but if you bring ideas to your physio, he or she will definitely clarify a good regimen for you.

I agree completely... it can just be too risky sometimes to suggest exercises and not be there in person to evalutate how you're doing them or if they are appropriate for you.