After knee replacement surgery there are various checkups with your surgeon along the way. Usually you will see your surgeon at three weeks, six weeks and then again at three, six and 12 months. Some surgeons will want to see you every year afterwards to take an x-ray of your knee to measure the size of the plastic spacer. We have a knee replacement three month checkup for you here.
Below we have a number of tests that are commonly used at a knee replacement three month checkup. These are assessments for you to do at home to get a sense of your progress post surgery. The tests here are based on the convention used by physical therapists and orthopedic surgeons.
BASIC ASSESSMENTS
(click on picture below to open the test in a new window)
At three months post-surgery your goal is to maintain good range of motion (0-130º) and to recapture pre-pain, pre-surgery strength. This means the quad, hamstring and calf strength that you had before you first had knee pain. Below are three tests for you to check up on your range of motion and strength.
BODY MASS INDEX (BMI)
Get a reading of your BMI as well as the demand that excess weight is putting on your knees. If you are overweight you will want to get back to your appropriate weight as soon as you can. This will help you prolong the utility of your new knee joint.
MOBILITY AND FUNCTION ASSESSMENTS
Assess and track your ability to move and function with the three tests below. Walking at a normal pace, walking a short distance and moving up and down stairs are all key to your return to a full and fun life.
BALANCE TEST
You can assess your ability to balance on one leg after knee replacement surgery using the Single Leg Stance Test. Balance and stability are crucial measures for any knee replacement three month checkup. The stronger your muscles are the better you will be when it comes to keeping your balance when you are in an unstable situation.
You might want to bookmark this page for your six (6) month and one year knee replacement anniversary. It would be good for you to test your self again using these same tests at that time.
Knee Resources for You
We have a library of educational resources for you that you can visit by clicking here. Two wonderful (and free) email series for you – each full of educational resources for knee surgery and recovery – can be found if you click on the pictures below.
