When can I kneel, sit on the floor and pray normally after a tibial tubercle osteotomy?

Why these positions take time

Kneeling puts direct pressure on the tibial tubercle, which is exactly where the bone was cut and fixed. Deep bending, as in sujood or sitting cross-legged in the majlis, also pulls strongly on the patellar tendon through that fragment.

Until the bone has healed solidly, these loads could shift the fragment or crack the shin. After healing, the area may still be tender, and the screws can be felt.

A typical progression

• First six weeks: no kneeling and limited bending, as set by your surgeon
• Six to twelve weeks: bending increases; chairs, a raised seat and a firm cushion help at home
• From around three months: gentle kneeling on a soft surface if the X-ray and the knee allow
• Later months: deeper bending and floor sitting as strength and comfort improve

Each step depends on X-ray healing and on whether other procedures were done at the same time.

Practical tips for home and the mosque

Many patients pray seated on a chair during recovery. You can discuss the religious side with a scholar. At home, a low stool or firm cushion can make floor sitting easier when it is allowed, and a kneeling pad reduces pressure on the scar and screws. Getting up from the floor is often harder than getting down, so use a stable support.

When to check in

If kneeling still hurts sharply over the screws after the bone has healed, or the knee swells after bending, mention it at follow-up. At Aman Hospital, Dr. Gelber can check whether the cause is the screws, the cartilage or stiffness, and adjust physiotherapy or consider screw removal.