How to Surf After a Knee Replacement

Knee replacement surgery does not mean the end of surfing. Though the surgery and recovery are complicated, those who love the surf likely will find they can begin paddling out again after an appropriate length of time. A surgery of this type, however, will necessitate changes in technique that must be considered.

Things You'll Need

  • A long board
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Instructions

  1. Make new surfing choices

    • 1

      Begin by choosing the right board. A 5-foot, carving twin-fin that may have regularly been used before surgery is not going to be the best choice anymore. A longer board will give more stability thanks to its length, depth and width. Seek something at least 2 feet above your height, 3 inches deep with a width of 24 inches.

    • 2

      Choose smaller surf until you get more acquainted with your new knee and its limitations. Don't paddle out into overhead surf on the first day back. Keep to waist-high or smaller surf when you start. Avoid thunderous shore breaks. Also, seek out a gently sloping beach with rolling surf. Smaller surf provides a kinder environment to explore the changes that surgery inevitably causes.

    • 3

      Practice popping-up from a prone position to standing on dry land before trying it on the surfboard. By far, the most challenging aspect of surfing after knee replacement surgery will be popping-up. Test what works best. For starters, expect a slower pop-up. A slow pop-up might even become a permanent feature of your surfing.

    • 4

      At home, make push-ups a regular part of your exercise routine. Chest strength will still be the determining factor in effectively lifting your body off the board enough to swing your legs underneath and into a standing position.

    • 5

      Determine how much weight can be placed on your knee, which will determine your positioning on the board and affect your carving when riding waves. Lay the board in the sand and stand on top in your normal stance. Sway gently side-to-side and, after moving up and down, test where there is stiffness or pain. Change your stance as necessary to compensate. Repeat the process in small surf or white water.