Total Knee Replacement Specialist

What is a total knee replacement?

In a total knee replacement, the surgeon does several different things to resurface your knee. This includes:

• Removing damaged cartilage
• Replacing damaged cartilage with new biocompatible components
• Resurfacing the underside of your patella
• Placing a spacer between the bones to ensure easy gliding

Contrary to the name, a total knee replacement doesn't actually replace all parts of your knee. Instead, it removes and replaces damaged parts while preserving the healthy ones.

When would I need a total knee replacement?

A number of conditions can cause pain severe enough to warrant a total knee replacement. The most common reason for knee replacements is pain from osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis and post-traumatic arthritis due to knee injury are also potential reasons for knee replacement.

If you're experiencing severe knee pain that's not relieved by more conservative treatments, your surgeon might recommend total knee replacement.

When do I start physical therapy after knee replacement?

Physical therapy helps you heal as quickly and effectively as possible after your knee replacement. Often, your treatment can begin as soon as one to two days after surgery.

What does my physical therapy plan include?

Your physical therapist will create a custom recovery plan for you. The goal is to strengthen your leg and get back to moving your knee normally as quickly as possible. You could do all of the following things.

Range-of-Motion Exercises

Range-of-motion exercises, such as riding a stationary bike, can help you get back to normal knee movement.

Strength Training

It's normal for your leg muscles to weaken after a knee replacement, so strengthening exercises focus on rebuilding those muscles. Because your hip muscles also help stabilize your knee, you can do hip exercises, too.

Balance Exercises

Balance exercises help regain your balance after knee surgery. These exercises often involve standing on one leg at a time.

Gait Exercises

It's normal to need a walker or walking cane after your surgery, but gait exercises can help you regain your regular gait so that you don't need help walking.

Tissue Massage

Scar tissue can build up after surgery, restricting your knee movement. Your physical therapist can do tissue massage to help break up the scar tissue and keep you moving normally.

A total knee replacement doesn't have to mean that life totally stops. Call now or book an appointment online for help.