Dr. Yuksel Yurttas
Regaining Mobility and Strength: Exercises for Limb Lengthening Surgery Recovery
Limb lengthening surgery is a complex procedure that requires a significant amount of time and dedication for recovery. The postoperative phase, which includes the lengthening phase and physical therapy, is crucial in ensuring a successful outcome. To aid in your recovery, it's essential to understand the steps of the procedure and the exercises that will help you regain your strength and mobility.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on exercises to help your recovery after limb lengthening surgery.

1. Bed exercises:
During the hospitalization phase, you will start with bed exercises. These exercises are designed to help you regain your range of motion and strength while you recover. Examples of bed exercises include:
Ankle pumps: While lying on your back, move your ankle up and down to improve blood circulation and reduce swelling.
Knee bends: While lying on your back, bend and straighten your knee to strengthen your quadriceps.
2. Stretching exercises:
As the bones lengthen, the muscles, tendons, nerves, vessels, and soft tissues around the bone also lengthen. That's why stretching exercises are vital after surgery. Examples of stretching exercises include:
Hamstring stretches: Sit on the edge of your bed and straighten your leg. Slowly reach forward and try to touch your toes. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat on the other side.
Quad stretches: Stand up and hold onto a chair for support. Bring your heel towards your buttocks and hold for 30 seconds. Repeat on the other side.
3. Strengthening exercises:
Since the body is not as active as before during heightening, a decrease in muscle mass is common. To prevent this, strengthening exercises are recommended. Examples of strengthening exercises include:
Calf raises: Stand on a step with your toes on the edge and your heels hanging off. Slowly raise and lower your heels to strengthen your calf muscles.
Leg press: Sit in a chair and press your legs against a resistance band to strengthen your quadriceps and hamstrings.
4. Balance exercises:
As you get taller after leg lengthening surgery, your body's center of balance also changes. For this reason, you need to do balance exercises to prevent swaying while walking and find the natural walking position. Examples of balance exercises include:
Single leg balance: Stand on one leg and hold onto a chair for support. Try to maintain your balance for as long as possible.
Balance beam: Use a foam roller or a pillow to walk on to improve your balance and coordination.
5. Cardio exercises:
To improve your cardiovascular fitness and overall health, you should include cardio exercises in your post-surgery routine. Examples of cardio exercises include:
Walking: Start with short walks and gradually increase the distance as you recover.
Cycling: Use a stationary bike to improve your cardiovascular fitness and leg strength.
6. Yoga exercises:
Yoga exercises are great for improving flexibility, balance, and strength. Examples of yoga exercises include:
Downward dog: This pose improves flexibility and strengthens your upper body.
Tree pose: This pose improves balance and strengthens your legs.
Child's pose: This pose stretches your back and legs.
Expert Support for a Smooth Recovery Journey
Limb lengthening surgery is a challenging process that requires a long course of treatment. However, by following the exercises mentioned above, you can ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.
For our patients who want to continue their treatment and physical therapy in Turkey, we provide excellent patient care with our expert healthcare team and follow their progress until full recovery. We understand that the recovery process can be difficult, which is why we offer 24/7 medical support and follow-up to ensure that our patients are well taken care of.
If you have any questions or need further information about the procedure and our services, please don't hesitate to contact us via WhatsApp or email.
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