| There are a multitude of exercises that are done | | | | the range of motion is reduced. |
| after you have had a knee replaced. The order in | | | | To get the full effects of the mini squat to stimulate |
| which you receive them will depend on a number of | | | | the quadriceps, simply elevate the heels. This then |
| different issues however, one exercise that you will | | | | takes the ankle and calf component out. You can |
| want to progress to will be the partial mini squat. | | | | either use a telephone book for instance or a block |
| This is a full weight bearing exercise where you find a | | | | of wood like a piece of 2x4. Anything that will not |
| stable surface like your kitchen counter for instance. | | | | slide and, elevate the heels will do the trick. The |
| You simply hold onto the counter with both hands | | | | elevation though should not be anymore then two to |
| then gently lower yourself down unto you get to | | | | four inches. Elevate your heels then you will feel a big |
| roughly a 45-55-degree angle. You then hold that | | | | difference as the emphasis is now on the thighs and |
| position for a slow count of five then, return back to | | | | less on the calf. |
| a full standing position. Avoid hyperextending your | | | | This exercise builds strength in the thigh muscles and |
| knee when you come up. If you return to the | | | | helps with your static standing balance. As your legs |
| starting position slowly you should prevent this. | | | | get stronger with this exercise you then find you will |
| You can start this exercise using 10-12 reps and, | | | | slowly transfer from a walker to a single point cane. |
| slowly build up to 20 to 25 reps. What I have found | | | | All rehabilitation protocols incorporate this exercise |
| working with older adults while doing this exercise is | | | | somewhere in it. The timing may depend on the |
| that the movement is felt more in the calf muscle | | | | rehabilitation specialist or orthopedic surgeons |
| then in the thighs. The reason for this is lack of ankle | | | | protocol. Make sure though this is an exercise that |
| mobility. As we age like all joints unless they are | | | | gets introduced to you for a successful rehabilitation |
| exercised and stretched they tend to contract and | | | | outcome. |