There are plenty of people who are avid joggers. However, these people may think that they have to give up jogging after a knee replacement.

It is true that up until the past few years medical professionals frowned on jogging for patients who had a knee replacement. However, new joint prosthesis materials are more durable than ever. Joint replacement surgical procedures have also advanced. Both of these facts mean that many medical professionals are less likely to tell patients that they can’t jog following their surgery. Doctors and physical therapists can even help you find the best path to return to jogging after your knee replacement.

Three ways physical therapists can help you return to jogging after a knee replacement

The road to return to normal activities like kneeling or jogging after a knee replacement may be a long one for many patients. It can take four to eight weeks before you’re able to walk without assistance. Getting back into jogging form is likely to take even longer. Some ways that your physical therapist can help you get back to jogging include:

1. Determining the risks of running — There are some potential risks that you’ll need to closely consider before returning to jogging. This activity can increase the risk of your implant coming loose, and a loose implant will require another surgery to fix or replace it. Your doctor and physical therapist can discuss these and other risks with you. That way you’ll be sure that you’re willing to face these risks when returning to jogging after a knee replacement.
2. Preparing your body for running — It’s also vital to prepare your body correctly if you want to return to jogging after knee surgery. Your physical therapist can help you build strength throughout your body, which can help you stand up better to the rigors of running. They can also help you adjust your running form to help reduce the risk of injuries and prosthesis issues.
3. Recommending equipment to make running safer — Jogging safely also requires that you have the right equipment, such as shoes that fit well. Physical therapists can offer recommendations about the best footwear for your needs. They can also help you learn to use other running equipment correctly, such as a knee brace.

Franklin Rehab can help you find the best path to return to jogging after a knee replacement

Are you determined to return to jogging after your knee replacement? Our team of physical therapists at Franklin Rehabilitation is ready to help you achieve this goal. We can do a free screening of your knee and the rest of your body, and this can help our team determine what you’ll need to address before you can return to jogging. Next, our physical therapists can create a rehabilitation plan that’s customized to fit your needs and designed to help get you jogging again.

Contact our team today for more information about our post-surgical rehab services and how they can help you or to schedule your initial appointment.