How to Ski After a Knee Replacement

Knee injuries no longer mean the end of an active sports life. In today's world it's relatively easy to recover after a knee injury. Correcting damage caused from an injury is much easier. However, there is a recovery process that should be followed if you want to participate in sports like skiing again.

A knee replacement surgery can allow you to keep enjoying an active lifestyle. It takes some time after a knee replacement to build your activity level back up. If you try to jump in to sports like skiing too soon you can cause more damage and worsen the original injury.

• Don't skip your physical therapy. Even if you are starting to feel stronger you need to keep up with it. It can be months before you are ready to start more vigorous activities.


• When you feel like you're ready to start more vigorous activity make sure to talk to your doctor and physical therapist. They can suggest a routine that will slowly get you back to where you want to be while allowing you to be more active at the same time.


• Have custom ski equipment fitted. Custom footbeds for ski boots will keep your leg in a more natural position. This will reduce the risk of injury later and will help you to get back on slopes more quickly.


• Don't jump on a double diamond slope when you first go back. You may not want to start again on beginner slopes, but you will need some time to see how your body adjusts. Hit a few beginner slopes, then work your way back up to the harder slopes.


• Pay close attention to your body the first few times you go back out after a knee replacement. Pain should be a signal that there is a problem. Don't ignore this. If you feel any pain you need to stop skiing entirely and make an appointment with your doctor. You may just need a little more time, but it's better to be safe than to risk re-injury.