how to recovery fully after having a surgery on the knee
Hi Ronald,
The first thing I would ask is whether or not your client is medically cleared to begin an
exercise program (what kind of surgery?). Plus, has any physical therapy been completed. (if so , I would connect with the PT as well for any special considerations). Then you can begin a slow and progressive plan for your client based on goals.
As far as the weight gain, the training will only supplement a healthy diet. The combination of the two will help your client lose the weight, but progress slowly, and refer your client to a Registered Dietician if necessary.
Best,
Christine
Hi Ronald,
let’s start with the easy part, and that’s the extra 15 lbs. Chances are that it was not only the lack of ‘formal’ exercise that caused the weight gain but a combination of more calories and less incidental activity. As we are only talking about 15 lbs, a mindful eye on a healthier diet should gradually help the client to get rid of the extra weight.
As far as the full recovery is concerned, please keep in mind that your client is only about 4 months post-op. Whether that constitutes a long time or not depends a lot on what kind of knee surgery your client had. I have often observed that surgeons tend to be overly optimistic in their prognostication about recovery time. Clients often told me that they were supposed to be back to work the next week and then are disappointed when that is far from the reality. Even with PT, I have observed that clients get little help with the secondary consequences of surgeries such as back and hip problems as a result of altered gait.
I would certainly start with the T exercises and gradually built from there but would also immediately start with anything that strengthens hip and core to prevent problems in that area. If your client has access to a pool, then activities such as water walking in all directions can assist with recovery. Swimming can help get started on a more vigorous cardio program as long as it is not breast stroke.
Good luck for you and your client.
Karin Singleton
www.KarinSingleton.com
Hello Ronald Marsh,
You also want to add patience/time to the recovery period. Make sure to listen to the body when progressing from the physical therapy moves: do not push too hard, just give the body a nudge towards better strength and flexibility for full ROM to be the goal.
Full recovery is different for everyone; so, find out what that means for the client and help them achieve their definition of full recovery. Let your professional opinion and training, guide the client towards a realistic definition of full recovery: many times, 90% return to previous activity level may be the best we can get.
Do not underestimate the power of managing stress, sleep and nutrition.
Thank you,
Natalie aka NAPS 2 B Fit.