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Can I Get Back to Lawn Bowls After Knee Replacement?

Updated: Aug 15, 2025

a woman after a knee replacement playing lawn bowls

“Will I be able to crouch, lunge or bowl again?”

If you love lawn bowls and have had (or are planning) a total knee replacement, this question has likely crossed your mind. The answer? Yes with a smart, joint-friendly strategy.


Bowls might look low impact, but it places surprising demands on the knee: deep bends, lunging, and weight shifting. These movements can irritate a healing joint if not reintroduced gradually.


Understanding Joint Load

The good news: you don’t need a deep squat to play bowls well.

In fact, biomechanical studies show that controlled knee bend with an upright torso places less compressive load on the joint than deep crouching (Neumann, 2017). It’s about control, not depth.


Exercises to Help You Bowl Again

Try these to build function without flaring symptoms:

1. Step-Ups (low step)

Improves controlled weight transfer through the operated leg

2. Modified Lunges (partial range)

Trains eccentric quad control

3. Split-Stance Hip Shifts

Trains balance, load shift, and lower limb coordination

Helpful Gear

  • Knee pads or cushions: for kneeling delivery styles

  • Opposite leg delivery: some bowlers switch sides post-op

  • Stance aids: improve comfort and reduce need for deep lunge


Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Assuming bowls is “too gentle” to need rehab

  2. Ignoring mild swelling or discomfort

  3. Pushing through pain to reach full squat depth


Final Thoughts

You don’t need to give up bowls after knee surgery. You just need to change how you bowl.

With better biomechanics and a structured build-up, you can return to the green confidently.


What’s Next?

If you’re not sure whether your knee is ready or you feel stuck between recovery and return, it’s time for clarity.


✅ Download the Return to Sport Post TKR Protocol now and see what a safe, evidence-informed pathway actually looks like.



Ready To Book

Returning to sport after a knee replacement doesn’t have to be confusing or risky. The key is having the right plan- and knowing when your body is ready.


If you're unsure what your next step should be, Book a consult with me, Emma, at The Hip and Knee Physio to get a tailored recovery plan that suits your goals.


👉 Call now on 9978 9833 or book online to take the first step toward pain-free movement.




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Disclaimer

The content provided on this website is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

While The Hip and Knee Physio strives to present accurate and up-to-date information, we do not guarantee results or outcomes based on the information provided. Any exercises, strategies, or recommendations featured on this site should not be considered a personalised treatment plan.

Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, particularly if you are experiencing pain, injury, or a pre-existing medical condition.

Use of this website does not create a physiotherapist–patient relationship. The Hip and Knee Physio accepts no responsibility for any injury or loss arising from reliance on or use of this information.

By using this website, you agree to these terms.


References

  • Neumann DA. (2017). Kinesiology of the Musculoskeletal System. Elsevier.

  • Monticone M et al. (2016). Return to sport and quality of life after total knee arthroplasty. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med.

  • Pozzi F et al. (2013). Physical exercise after total knee arthroplasty. Clin Rehabil.

 
 
 

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