Osteotomy
Knee osteotomy is a surgery to realign the knee and reduce arthritis pain. Physiotherapy before and after surgery is essential for recovery, strength, and return to activity.
What is Knee Osteotomy?
Knee osteotomy is a surgical procedure where the bone around the knee is cut and realigned to improve joint function and reduce pain.
It is commonly performed in patients with knee osteoarthritis affecting one side of the joint. By shifting weight away from the damaged area to a healthier part of the knee, the procedure reduces stress on the joint and improves movement.
If you are considering or recovering from knee osteotomy in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports can guide you through every stage of rehabilitation.
Why is Knee Osteotomy Needed?
Knee osteotomy is recommended when there is uneven wear in the knee joint.
Common reasons include:
- Knee osteoarthritis affecting one side
- Bow-legged (varus) alignment
- Knock-knee (valgus) alignment
- Persistent knee pain with activity
- Uneven weight distribution in the knee
Many patients describe symptoms like:
- “pain inside knee when walking”
- “knee feels unstable”
- “knee alignment looks uneven”
- “cannot walk long distances without pain”
The goal is to delay or avoid total knee replacement, especially in younger, active individuals.
Types of Knee Osteotomy
There are two main surgical techniques:
1. Closing Wedge Osteotomy
- A wedge of bone is removed
- Knee alignment is corrected by closing the gap
2. Opening Wedge Osteotomy
- Bone is cut and opened on one side
- Gap is filled and stabilised with plates/screws
The choice depends on your knee condition and alignment.
Physiotherapy BEFORE Surgery
Prehabilitation plays a major role in recovery.
Goals include:
- Improve knee range of motion
- Strengthen quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes
- Enhance hip and ankle stability
- Prepare the body for post-surgical rehab
At ACE Physio Sports Singapore, we ensure you go into surgery strong and prepared.
Learn more 👉 https://acephysiosport.com
Symptoms After Knee Osteotomy
After surgery, it is normal to experience:
- Pain and swelling
- Stiffness in the knee
- Reduced mobility
- Difficulty weight-bearing
- Use of crutches for up to 6 weeks
These improve with structured rehabilitation.
Physiotherapy AFTER Surgery (Recovery Phases)
0–4 Weeks (Protection Phase)
- No weight-bearing initially (progress gradually)
- Use of knee brace
- Pain and swelling control (RICE)
Exercises include:
- Gentle knee bending (heel slides)
- Quadriceps activation
- Straight leg raises
- Ankle pumps
- Patella mobilisation
4–8 Weeks (Mobility & Strength Phase)
- Gradual return to full weight-bearing
- Restore full knee movement
Rehabilitation includes:
- Active knee exercises
- Step-ups and mini squats
- Balance training
- Hip and core strengthening
- Cycling or swimming
8–12 Weeks (Advanced Strength Phase)
- Build strength and endurance
- Improve functional movement
Exercises include:
- Lunges and advanced strengthening
- Proprioception training
- Gait retraining
- Activity-specific exercises
4–6 Months (Return to Activity Phase)
- Full strength and mobility expected
- Return to sport or active lifestyle
Programme includes:
- Sport-specific drills
- Plyometric training (if suitable)
- Advanced balance and coordination
- Functional strength and endurance training
Recovery Timeline
Typical recovery expectations:
- Crutches: up to 6 weeks
- Full movement: ~8–12 weeks
- Return to activity: 4–6 months
Consistency in physiotherapy is essential for optimal results.
What Should I Do After Surgery?
- Follow your physiotherapy plan strictly
- Manage swelling with ice and elevation
- Progress exercises gradually
- Attend all rehab sessions
What Shouldn’t I Do?
- Do not rush weight-bearing
- Avoid high-impact activities early
- Do not skip rehabilitation
- Avoid pushing through pain
Long-Term Outcomes
Knee osteotomy can:
- Reduce pain significantly
- Improve knee alignment and function
- Delay knee replacement by 5–10 years
Without proper rehab, stiffness and weakness may persist.
Why Choose ACE Physio Sports
At ACE Physio Sports, we specialise in post-surgical knee rehabilitation in Singapore.
✔ Structured, phase-based rehab programs ✔ Hands-on physiotherapy + guided exercise ✔ Sports-specific recovery plans ✔ Focus on long-term joint health
If you are preparing for or recovering from knee osteotomy, we can help you return to full function safely.
Explore more 👉 https://acephysiosport.com
Book Appointment
If you are looking for knee osteotomy physiotherapy in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports can help.
📞 Call: +65 81535374 🌐 Book online: https://acephysiosport.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I walk without crutches after Osteotomy?
Most patients transition off crutches within 2–6 weeks, depending on the procedure and weight-bearing restrictions set by your surgeon. Physiotherapy focuses on gait retraining and building quadriceps strength to support the knee safely.
How long will my knee be swollen after Osteotomy?
Some swelling is normal for 6–12 weeks after knee surgery. Your physiotherapist uses techniques like ice, elevation, compression, and light exercise to manage post-operative effusion and progressively restore range-of-motion.
When can I return to running or sport after Osteotomy?
Return to sport typically takes 3–12 months depending on the procedure. Your physiotherapist will guide a progressive return programme, ensuring adequate strength, stability, and psychological readiness before full activity is cleared.
Ready to start your recovery?
Our specialist physiotherapists are here to help. Book a consultation today.
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