Can I resume my usual sports activities after a knee surgery?
February 7, 2023 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Fanni Helbig
Dear Doctor,
My name is Anna Hemminger and I recently had knee surgery. I am passionate about playing tennis and regularly go jogging, but since the operation, I am unsure if I can resume my usual sports activities. The surgery was necessary due to a meniscus injury causing severe knee pain. The operation went well, but I am concerned about whether my knee is stable enough to engage in my sports without pain.
My doctor has already told me that I can slowly start exercising again after rehabilitation, but I am still unsure if I can fully return to my beloved sports. I do not want to take any risks and injure my knee again.
Can you please tell me if it is possible to play tennis and jog again after knee surgery? Are there any specific exercises or measures I can take to strengthen my knee and prevent injuries? I want to ensure that I do not overexert my body and keep my knee healthy in the long term.
Thank you in advance for your response and advice.
Sincerely,
Anna Hemminger
Dear Mrs. Hemminger,
I understand your concerns regarding your sporting activities after a knee surgery. It is completely normal to be cautious after such a procedure and to want to ensure that your knee is stable and healthy enough to participate in your beloved sports.
After a meniscus operation, it is usually possible to play tennis and jog again, provided that your rehabilitation is successful and your knee has regained the necessary stability and strength. It is important that you follow the instructions of your treating doctor and physiotherapist to ensure that your knee heals optimally and fully recovers.
To strengthen your knee and prevent injuries, there are various exercises and measures you can take. Initially, you should start with gentle movements and knee stabilization exercises. These may include tightening and loosening the thigh muscles, training balance and coordination, and stretching the muscles around the knee joint.
It is also important to perform targeted strength training for the leg muscles to stabilize and support the knee. Specific exercises such as leg presses, squats, and lunges can help strengthen the muscles and relieve pressure on the knee.
Additionally, you can switch to sports with lower impact on the knee, such as swimming or cycling, to protect the joints while remaining active.
It is important to listen to your body and pay attention to warning signs such as pain or instability. If you experience discomfort during exercise, you should pause immediately and seek medical advice if necessary.
I recommend speaking with your treating doctor and physiotherapist to create an individualized training plan tailored to your needs and your knee. Together, you can ensure that you can return to your sports without pain or risks.
I wish you success in your rehabilitation and hope that you will soon be fully ready for tennis and jogging again.
Best regards,
Fanni Helbig
