Pritchette Physical Therapy treats many conditions related to the knee, this includes post-surgical total knee replacement surgery. Here is what to expect with total knee replacement physical therapy.
What is a Total Knee Replacement (TKR)?
A Total Knee Replacement (TKR), also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to replace the weight bearing surfaces of the knee joint to improve knee function and reduce knee pain. It is commonly performed when the knee joint experiences rheumatoid arthritis and/or some form of knee joint deformity.
Partial Knee Replacements (PKR) are performed when it is reasonable to achieve a positive outcome with addressing only certain knee joint surfaces.
When is a Total Knee Replacement Surgery Performed?
The surgical procedure is performed by an Orthopedic surgeon after more conservative forms of treatment have been explored. This includes physical therapy, oral anti-inflammatories, and injectables medication.
How should a person prepare for Total Knee Replacement Surgery?
Pre-surgical physical therapy is an excellent way to prepare for a Total Knee Replacement surgery. It helps address pain and improves strength and stability of the knee joint prior to the procedure. It also helps speed up the recovery process after the surgical procedure.
How long is the recovery process for a Total Knee Replacement?
Most procedures are performed in outpatient facilities, meaning the patient can return home same day. While recovery time is on a case per case basis, one can expect to expect significant return to function within 4-6 weeks and a return to full activity within 2-3 months.
What restrictions should one expect after Total Knee Replacement?
While this will be communicated to the patient by the orthopedic surgeon or physical therapist, most patients return to full activity with no restrictions. The patient should communicate what activities they would like to return to with their orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist to see if any precautions should be taken
What should be expected from physical therapy after Total Knee Replacement?
Most Total Knee Replacement surgeries are performed “outpatient” with a patient returning home that day. Outpatient physical therapy is scheduled usually about a week after the procedure.
For weeks 1 – 4, the goal is to reduce post-surgical swelling, increase range of motion of the knee, and begin light strengthening and stabilization of the knee.
For weeks 5-10, the goal is to achieve maximum range of motion of the knee, increase strengthening activities, and begin process to return to basic activity function.
For weeks 10 and on, the goal is to gradually return the patient to recreational activity function, maintain strength and endurance, and return patient to full function.