When can I pray normally, kneel and sit on the floor after MPFL surgery?

Why these positions take longer

Sujood, kneeling and sitting on the floor all need the knee to bend well beyond what is required for walking or climbing stairs, and kneeling puts direct pressure on the front of the knee near the incisions. In the early weeks the new graft is still healing to bone, so bending is increased in steps to protect it and to keep swelling under control.

Typical stages

• First weeks: pray seated on a chair; use a firm chair with armrests at home and a raised toilet seat if helpful
• Around four to six weeks: bending past a right angle is often achieved, making low chairs, cars and stairs easier
• Around two to three months: many patients start kneeling on a cushion and performing sujood, provided the knee feels stable and swelling stays settled
• Later: deep squatting and sitting cross-legged or on the heels for long periods are usually the last to return

Practical tips at home and at the mosque

Kneel on a soft mat at first and use your hands or a chair to lower and raise yourself. Lead with the non-operated leg when getting down. If the knee aches afterwards, reduce the time spent in that position for a few days rather than stopping completely.

Questions about how to adapt the prayer itself can be discussed with a scholar; the surgical team's role is to tell you what your knee can safely do at each stage.

If progress is slower

Some people, especially those who also had a bone realignment or cartilage repair, take longer to regain deep bending. If bending stalls, contact your physiotherapist or the team at Aman Hospital. Dr. Gelber checks the range of movement at each visit and can adjust the plan early, which is much easier than treating established stiffness.