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Can I ice skate after knee replacement?

Writer David Wilson

One should not engage in ice skating after knee replacement has it is an intense physical activity.

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Why should you not ice skate after knee replacement?

Ice skating is a type of physical activity that has the potential to cause wear and tear injuries on your new knee replacement. Moreover, it can also cause an intraarticular fracture which is a break of the femur bone in the thigh or the tibia bone just below the knee cap.

What do you need to expect from ice skating after knee replacement?

In ice skating, as soon as you land on your feet from pushing yourself with your skate, there is a great chance for injury because of its high risk. In order to keep balance while skating, you have to lift one foot up and put weight on it so that you can push yourself forward using another leg which can lead to more damage down the road.

Is ice skating after knee replacement possible?

It is not possible for you to ice skate without having fractures, but if your surgeon gave you permission, then it can be beneficial.

How long do I need to wait after knee replacement before I ice skate?

Generally, after total knee replacement, you are allowed to walk on the day of surgery, and doing so will help in proper blood flow. However, you should avoid exercising until getting at least 6 weeks’ checkups. At this time your scars would have settled down and they got stronger than before so that they don’t tear apart while skating.

What exercises are beneficial after knee replacement instead of ice skating?

If possible, swimming or low-impact aerobics can be done for physical fitness. Other alternative exercises are bicycling, walking, and light jogging for physical fitness.

What are the precautions needed to take after knee replacement before I start ice skating?

You should wait for at least six weeks before you can hit the ice. And that’s two weeks more than the 4 weeks of post-op recuperation that’s recommended by doctors and physical therapists.