Total Knee Replacement

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A total knee replacement is often the answer for people when x-rays and other tests show joint damage (severe arthritis or significant trauma); when moderate-to-severe, persistent pain does not improve adequately with nonsurgical treatment; and when the limited range of motion in their knee joint diminishes their quality of life.

 

 In a total knee replacement surgery, the ends of the femur and tibia bones, and backside of the kneecap are replaced. With a partial knee replacement either the end of the femur bone or tibia is replaced. There have been many advances in the technology of the total knee replacement prosthesis and procedures allowing for less invasive surgery and faster recovery times.

 

Typically, people have suffered for a while before having surgery, leading to changes in walking, muscle strength and function. Seeing a physical therapist before surgery and going through a "prehab" program (a set of rehabilitative exercises before surgery) is proven to increase strength and speed the post-surgical recovery process.

 

About 90 percent of patients appear to experience rapid and substantial reduction in pain, feel better in general, and enjoy improved joint function. Although most total knee replacement surgeries are successful, failure does occur and revision is sometimes necessary. Risk factors include being younger than 55 years old, being male, being obese, and having osteoarthritis, infection, or other illnesses.

 

How physical therapy helps

Working with your physician's protocols, we coordinate a thorough rehabilitation program to get you back to normal walking as soon as possible.

 

Post-surgical physical therapy for knee replacement patients is a must. Typically, you start physical therapy in the hospital the day after your procedure. After progressing from the hospital, it is very important to continue with outpatient physical therapy in our practice.

 

We complete the rehabilitation cycle, further restoring your range of motion via your physician's protocols, restoring normal walking, balance, knee coordination and alleviating pain. We ensure that we continue to reinforce safety precautions with your knee movement while you heal. The end result is being able to return to most normal activities pain-free.