All You Need to Know About Total Knee PT

The knee is the most commonly replaced joint in the body. Total knee replacement surgery, also known as total knee arthroplasty (TKA), is usually performed as a result of symptomatic osteoarthritis and/or degenerative joint disease due to bone on bone contact between the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shin bone). A TKA typically involves removing the bottom of the femur and the top of the tibia and replacing them with titanium alloy and polyethylene components.

Rehabilitation following TKA will typically start on the same day as surgery and last up to 16 weeks.

Phase I of rehabilitation (postoperative days 1-14) will focus on getting in/out of bed and in/out of a chair, walking with an assistive device (yes, you read that correctly, you can put weight through your leg on day 1!), moving the knee to regain range of motion and general lower body strengthening exercises.

Phase II (postoperative weeks 2-8) will focus on returning to normal gait and decreasing assistance (for example going from walking with a walker to a cane), continued knee range of motion and strengthening exercises, pain control measures such as ice or heat and electrical stimulation, patella (knee cap) joint mobilization by the therapist to assist with increasing range of motion and advancing activities of daily living training exercises.

Finally, phase III (postoperative weeks 9-16) will focus on continuing to advance the activities mentioned above with training aimed at returning to work, recreational activities, and/or prior level of function.

Here are a few extra tips for success:

  • It is important to remember that no two total knees are alike and not everyone will progress within exactly the same time frames, some may progress more quickly and some more slowly. (That means don’t compare your knee to your neighbor Bob’s knee.)
  • Ask questions! Your healthcare providers will be happy to help you with knowing what to expect and also to answer even the smallest question regarding your current symptoms.
  • Take your rehab seriously! Show up ready for PT and willing to work hard in order to achieve the best results.
  • Consistency is key! Be compliant with your home exercise program and stay committed.
  • Stay positive! Having a positive outlook on your rehabilitation process plays a very important role in your road to recovery.
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