23/01/2026
Did you know prehab before a Total Knee Replacement matters?
Stronger muscles going into surgery often = better outcomes coming out.
Here are 5 simple exercises we commonly use to prepare the body for a Total Knee Replacement (TKR).
Always perform exercises within a comfortable range and follow guidance from your physiotherapist.
1️⃣ Standing Calf Raises
Why it matters for TKR:
Helps maintain ankle strength, circulation, and walking endurance before and after surgery.
Rise up onto your toes, pause briefly, then slowly lower back down.
Use a bench or wall for balance if needed.
2️⃣ Standing Hamstring Curls
Why it matters for TKR:
Supports knee bending strength and control.
Standing tall, bend your knee to bring your heel towards your glute, then return slowly.
Keep your hips steady and movement controlled.
3️⃣ Supine Leg Press with Band
Why it matters for TKR:
Strengthens quads and glutes without stressing the knee joint.
Lying on your back with a resistance band around your feet, gently press your legs away, then slowly return.
Work within a comfortable, pain-free range.
4️⃣ Sidelying Hip Abductors
Why it matters for TKR:
Improves hip stability, which reduces stress through the knee during walking and stairs.
Lying on your side, lift the top leg upward while keeping your body stacked and controlled.
5️⃣ Sidelying Hip Adductors
Why it matters for TKR:
Builds inner thigh strength to support knee alignment and balance.
Lying on your side, lift the bottom leg up towards the top leg with slow control.
Thinking about or booked in for a Total Knee Replacement?
A structured prehab program can make a big difference, chat to us about your rehab.
