DAY 1

On the day after the surgery, exercises are begun. These exercises help in improving body circulation and the circulation of the operated limb. This helps in reducing the swelling and prepares you for early walking.

The exercises also help in reducing the incidence of calf clots (deep vein thrombosis) and lung complications (pulmonary embolism) secondary to calf clots.

Exercise pictures

• Deep breathing exercises : This is done with a machine called triflometer. To be done in set of 10, twice a day.
• Static Quadriceps exercises : In this exercise, you tighten your kneecap till the count of 3 seconds and loosen it for another count of 3 seconds. To be done in the set of 5, every hour.
• Calf pumps : Moving the foot up and down, at the ankle joint to its maximum This exercise reduces the incidence of calf vein clots.
• Buttocks : Try to lengthen and shorten the operated leg from the hip. This develops your buttock muscles. To be done in set of 5, every hour.
• Upper limb exercises :

  Done either in sitting or propped up in bed.

  i. Raising the arms by the side.

  ii. Spreading the arms by the side.

  iii. Bringing the arms together in front.

  iv. Elbow bending and straightening.

  v. Spring dumbell.

  All to be done in set of 5, twice a day.

Today the nursing staff will help you turn on your side. You may turn on either side. That is, if you wish, you may lie on the operated side as well. While turning on the side it is important to keep the legs spread apart with pillows in between the legs. Keeping the hip and the knee extended.