Isometric exercise, tighten without moving

Isometric exercise

Isometric exercise is tightening a muscle and holding it, without moving the joint. For example, pressing the back of the knee down while the leg stays still works the thigh muscle without bending the knee.

This matters when a joint is painful, healing, or must be kept still for a time. The muscle can still be worked and kept strong, even while movement is limited.

Our physiotherapist teaches the right hold, how firm to squeeze and how long to keep it. We use these early after surgery or a flare of joint pain, then move on to fuller movements as the joint is ready. It is a gentle way to hold on to strength.