After surgeryPhysiotherapy
After a knee replacement, when can I use the stairs?
Most people are on stairs by week three. Here is the order, the rule, and what I measure first.
The question comes at the first visit, usually while I am still setting up the table. The honest answer is: sooner than you fear, later than you hope, and it depends on one number.
The number: how far your knee bends
To climb a normal Indian stair, about 17 centimetres high, your knee needs to bend to roughly 90 degrees. To come down comfortably, closer to 100. I measure this with a goniometer at every visit, and stairs go on the plan when the measurement says so, not the calendar. For most people after a knee replacement that is between week two and week four.
Up with the good, down with the bad
The rule you will hear from every physio, and it works. Going up, step with the operated leg second, so the strong leg lifts you. Coming down, step with the operated leg first, so the strong leg lowers you. Use the rail. If there is no rail, we talk about getting one fitted before you go up alone.
Step-ups on the bottom stair
- Stand at the bottom of the stairs facing up, one hand on the rail.
- Step up with your non-operated leg.
- Bring the operated leg up to meet it, taking your time.
- Step down with the operated leg first, then the other.
- Rest for a breath before the next repetition.
Stop if: The knee swells noticeably that evening. Skip a day and do fewer next time.
What about the stairs to the terrace, or the society steps?
Outdoor steps in Pune are often taller and uneven, and there is rarely a rail. I treat them as a separate goal. They usually come two to three weeks after indoor stairs, and I want to watch the first attempt.
Stairs go on the plan when the measurement says so, not the calendar.
