Any suggestions for working with a client who has double knee replacements?
This person is enjoying some yoga and mat Pilates (group classes) but is unable to gain all of the benefits as no work can be completed on their knees. They joined the classes on their own. I would just like to get creative to keep them moving forward and continue to see gains as those classes are probably not the best.
Hi Becky! It’s awesome that the person is taking the initiative to move…but you’re right, there are probably some better activities for them. Do you have access to a pool? Water exercises will help take the load off the knees. And, depending on where he or she is in the recovery and physical therapy, riding a bike is one of the most popular forms of exercise for this population.
Have they had physical therapy with their medical provider? Hopefully they did. Part of that therapy includes some work the patient is supposed to do at home or on their own for the rest of their life.
So, after you’ve confirmed that they are doing the ROM exercises and whatever else the doctor recommended, you could get them on a stationary bike. Indoor cycling classes may be a little too aggressive – depending on the instructor and the program – but a water aerobics class might be pretty awesome for them.