Patellectomy
Patellectomy is a complex knee surgery where the kneecap is removed, often leading to weakness, instability, and difficulty straightening the leg. Expert physiotherapy in Singapore is essential to restore strength, movement, and safe function after surgery.
What is a Patellectomy?
A patellectomy is a surgical procedure where the patella (kneecap) is partially or completely removed. The kneecap plays a key role in helping your thigh muscles (quadriceps) straighten the knee efficiently.
Without the patella, the knee loses mechanical advantage, which can affect strength, movement, and stability.
This surgery is usually considered a last resort when other treatments fail.
If you are looking for post-surgery knee physiotherapy in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports can guide you through a structured recovery plan.
Why is Patellectomy Needed?
A patellectomy may be recommended in cases such as:
- Severe knee osteoarthritis not responding to treatment
- Persistent front knee pain affecting daily life
- Shattered kneecap (comminuted fracture)
- Failed previous knee surgeries
Because the patella is important for knee mechanics, removing it can permanently change how your knee functions.
Physiotherapy BEFORE Surgery
Prehabilitation (physio before surgery) is often overlooked but extremely important.
At ACE Physio Sports, we focus on:
- Strengthening quadriceps to reduce post-surgery weakness
- Improving knee movement to prevent stiffness after surgery
- Strengthening hip and ankle for better support
- Preparing you for walking with crutches
This helps reduce issues like cannot bend knee properly after surgery and improves recovery outcomes.
You can learn more about our approach at 👉 https://acephysiosport.com
Symptoms AFTER Patellectomy
After surgery, many patients experience:
- Knee feels unstable or knee giving way
- Difficulty straightening the leg fully
- Pain and swelling around the knee
- Stiffness and reduced movement
- Weak quadriceps muscle
- Difficulty walking or cannot put weight on leg properly
You may need:
- Crutches (up to 6–8 weeks)
- Knee brace or immobiliser
- Temporary restriction from driving
These symptoms are normal—but must be managed properly with physiotherapy.
What Should I Do After Surgery?
- Start physiotherapy early (as advised by your surgeon)
- Follow weight-bearing instructions strictly
- Keep swelling under control (ice, elevation)
- Stay consistent with rehab exercises
- Focus on regaining movement gradually
What Shouldn’t I Do?
- Do not rush walking without support
- Avoid forcing knee bending or straightening
- Do not ignore swelling or pain
- Avoid skipping physiotherapy sessions
- Do not return to sports too early
Poor rehab can lead to long-term issues like chronic weakness or knee instability.
Physiotherapy Treatment After Patellectomy
A structured rehabilitation programme is critical to regain function.
At ACE Physio Sports near East Coast Road, Singapore, we provide progressive, phase-based rehabilitation tailored to your recovery.
Phase 1: Early Stage (0–4 weeks)
Focus: Protection, pain control, and muscle activation
- Gentle range of motion exercises
- Isometric quadriceps activation
- Swelling management (ice, elevation)
- Hip and ankle strengthening
- Non-weight bearing with crutches
Goal: Prevent stiffness and maintain muscle activity
Phase 2: Middle Stage (4–8 weeks)
Focus: Controlled movement and gradual loading
- Active knee movement exercises
- Progressive strengthening (quads, hamstrings, calves)
- Partial weight-bearing progression
- Balance training
- Hydrotherapy (if suitable)
Goal: Improve mobility and reduce stiffness
Phase 3: Late Stage (8–12+ weeks)
Focus: Function and return to activity
- Full weight-bearing walking retraining
- Functional exercises (stairs, daily tasks)
- Strength and endurance training
- Proprioception and stability work
- Sport-specific rehab (if required)
Goal: Restore independence and confidence
Recovery & Long-Term Effects
Recovery after patellectomy varies, but most patients:
- Regain functional walking ability
- Experience some permanent quadriceps weakness
- May have difficulty with high-impact activities
- Need long-term strengthening to maintain stability
Without proper rehab, issues like knee feels weak when walking or instability can persist.
Consistent physiotherapy helps you achieve the best possible outcome.
Why Choose ACE Physio Sports
If you are looking for patellectomy rehabilitation in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports offers:
- Expert post-surgical physiotherapy
- Individualised rehab programmes
- Strong focus on functional recovery
- Hands-on treatment + guided exercise therapy
- Convenient location near East Coast Road
We don’t just treat pain—we help you move confidently again.
Explore more at 👉 https://acephysiosport.com
Book Appointment
If you are recovering from patellectomy or planning surgery, early physiotherapy can make a major difference.
📞 Call +65 81535374 🌐 Book online: https://acephysiosport.com
Start your recovery with expert physiotherapy in Singapore today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I walk without crutches after Patellectomy?
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 Patellectomy?
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 Patellectomy?
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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