Total Knee Replacement

Knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure where the knee joint is replaced with artificial components. This procedure is commonly undertaken to relieve knee pain and mobility issues often associated with joint degeneration.

typical causes:

Typical causes necessitating knee arthroplasty often involve age-related diseases such as osteoarthritis, which wears away the cartilage, causing painful bone-on-bone friction. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition triggering inflammation and eventual joint degeneration, is another common cause. Injuries leading to arthritis, such as fractures, tears, and dislocations, may also require knee arthroplasty if conservative treatments fail.

how physical therapy can help:

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the pre- and post-knee replacement stages. Research shows individuals who participate in physical therapy prior to their surgery and improve their knee mobility and strength often experience better outcomes post surgery. Post-surgery, it aids in restoring joint movement and strength, speeding up recovery, and improving the patient’s ability to perform daily tasks. By tailoring exercises to individual needs, physical therapy ensures a successful and efficient rehabilitation process.

Knee Replacement - Causes, When it is Necessary, Recovery, and Life Afterward

exercises that may help reduce pain:

Some discomfort may be expected with these exercises. Monitor symptoms with these exercises and make sure pain is tolerable and appropriate.

Heel Slides – This technique involves lying on your back or sitting upright, beginning with both legs flat on the ground with your toes pointed up. With a resistance band around the foot of the afflicted knee, gradually slide the heel toward your buttocks with the resistance band. It is important to maintain alignment and control throughout the movement, ensuring that your knee stays pointing towards the ceiling. Perform 20-30 reps of this motion, 2-3 times per day.

Seated Quad Set – Begin by taking a seated position. Begin in a seated position with the afflicted leg straight. Start by pushing the back of your knee towards the floor. You should be able to see the quadriceps muscle (top of thigh) contract during this movement. Hold this for 5-10 seconds and then release the contraction. Repeat this process 15-20 times for 2-3 sets. Can do this 2-3 times a day.

Calf Stretch – Stretch against a wall. Ensure that throughout this exercise that you maintain an upright posture. Stand with a stride, the leg to be stretched is placed behind you. Keeping the knee straight on the leg that you are stretching, hips forward until you feel a stretch tension in your calf or knee. Hold this stretch for 90- 120 seconds. Try to stretch for 2-3 minutes total (can break this up as needed).