DePuy Synthes

Physical Therapy for Limb Deformity

Below are some different kinds of stretches and strengthening exercises which may be appropriate for you. Please consult your physician before beginning any new stretching or strengthening exercises.

Pre-Surgery Exercises

As patients prepare to undergo treatment, surgeons may suggest some exercises to prepare for crutch walking. Flexion (bent) and extension (straight) exercises for the arms and forearms with the use of weights to strengthen the shoulder and upper extremity muscles.As patients prepare to undergo treatment, surgeons may suggest some exercises to prepare for crutch walking. Flexion (bent) and extension (straight) exercises for the arms and forearms with the use of weights to strengthen the shoulder and upper extremity muscles.

Physical Therapy

Depending upon your individual procedure, your surgeon may recommend physical therapy during your treatment phase. These exercises should not be attempted without the supervision of a licensed therapist. The therapist may “release” you to do the exercises on your own after you have shown competence completing the exercises properly for the therapist.

Some of the recommended exercises may include:

Calf/Toe Stretches with Strap

Sit on a flat surface with knee straight. Use a strap to pull foot toward you.

Passive Knee Extension

With heel resting on a towel or pillow, gently press down on knee and try to straighten leg.

Knee Flexion

Sit in a chair and slide foot backwards toward body as tolerated.

Heel Slides

Start with leg in straight position and then slide heel toward body as tolerated.

HELPFUL LINKS

References

No available references.

Your surgeon may suggest that you are monitored so exercises can be adjusted to meet your body's changing needs.

CAUTION: It is important to note that exercises of any type should not be attempted without the supervision of a licensed therapist. The therapist has the responsibility of “releasing” or approving a patient to do the exercises on their own after they have shown competence completing them properly.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
The performance of limb deformity surgery depends on age, weight, activity level and other factors. There are potential risks and recovery takes time. People with conditions limiting rehabilitation should not have this surgery. Only an orthopaedic surgeon can tell if limb deformity surgery is right for you.

111787-191112 DSUS