After your knee surgery, it’s natural to wonder when you’ll be able to get back to doing the things you love. Skiing after a knee replacement is all about planning, timing, and know-how. 

Every patient heals differently, and it’s important to consider where you are in your recovery. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you approach your first ski season post-knee replacement.

Physical Therapy to Get You Back In Ski Shape After Knee Surgery 

Physical therapy after a knee replacement surgery typically starts the week after your operation. Getting you back in ski shape involves increasing your range of motion and strengthening your knee. 

Some exercise for knee replacement recovery include:

• Standing Hip Flexion: Helps strengthen the front thigh muscles, which are important for regaining your gait.

• Proprioceptive Standing: A correcting exercise that retrains your balance.

• Stool Walking: Strengthens the hamstrings and improves the knee’s flexion (ability to bend). 

• Leg Press: Engages and strengthens the quadriceps, which are the muscles around your knee joint. 

• Stationary Bike: Improves your knee’s bend and range of motion while building strength and endurance.  

You should have at least six weeks of physical therapy and your physician's approval before returning to ski season after a knee replacement. This will ensure that your joint has the balance, strength, and endurance required for a day on the mountain.

Skiing After Knee Replacement Surgery  

The majority of all knee replacements patients are able to return to the activities they love. However, downhill skiing is considered a high-impact activity and should be resumed mindfully. 

Once you are given the green-light from your physician, keep these tips in mind when skiing after knee replacement surgery:

• Be aware of snow conditions. Soft powder is ideal for easing your new joint into ski shape and reducing injuries from falls. 

• Keep your ski boot fastenings on a looser setting.

• Stay on groomed snow and avoid moguls.

• Start each day with an easy run to see how your knee feels.

• Stick to green and blue runs.

 Be sure to contact your orthopaedic team if you notice any:

• Pain

• Stiffness

• Swelling

• Joint weakness

Remember, most ski injuries happen at the end of the day. Be aware of your energy levels and joint fatigue. We want you to end your first ski season after a knee replacement stronger, healthier, and happier. 

Contact Team Cafferky With All Your Knee Replacement Questions

Team Cafferky is here to help you get back to doing the activities you love. If you have any questions about knee replacements or returning to skiing after knee surgery, contact us today. Together, we’ll help get you back on the slopes!