Knee Extension
Knee extension refers to the straightening movement that occurs at the knee joint, allowing the leg to move from a bent or flexed position to a straight or extended position. This movement is important for activities such as walking, running, and standing up from a seated position. After knee surgery, achieving and maintaining knee extension is an essential aspect of the rehabilitation process. In the immediate postoperative period, it is common to experience some difficulty in achieving full knee extension due to factors such as post-surgical swelling, pain, and muscle weakness. However, with appropriate rehabilitation and therapy, most patients can regain near-normal or full knee extension over time.
1. Adjust Extension Device
Remove screws on cross bar to adjust width to fit knee. When adjusted, replace screws and tighten.
2. Secure Extension Device
Open extension device and place on knee. Using the velcro straps, secure the device around the knee and tighten.
3. Put On Flexion Device
Put on flexion device and place strap around foot.
4. Elevate Heel
With strap around heel, elevate heel with a towel or pillow. Then secure strap in slotted cross bar.
5. Crank Device
While lying supine, tighten strap by cranking handle. Tighten and release according to your provider's instruction.
6. Release Strap
To release strap squeeze blue handle and move handle to align blue marks on side of device. Once marks are aligned, squeeze handle to release tension. Repeat according to your doctors orders.