The Role of Physical Therapy After a Knee Replacement
Knee replacement is a common type of joint replacement surgery.
Knee replacement is a common type of joint replacement surgery. After the surgery, the rehabilitation process is crucial for restoring functionality.
Typically, physical therapy will begin at least two weeks after surgery. These first two weeks will focus on managing pain and decreasing swelling. Once those have been addressed, physical therapy should begin.
The benefits of physical therapy post-surgery
Knee replacement surgery is just the beginning of the healing process. To fully reap the procedure's benefits, the patient must begin regular physical therapy. Please note that each person responds differently to therapy. Therefore, the average length of treatment varies between four to eight weeks.
Here are some of the benefits of physical therapy:
Better range of motion
Improving the knee's range of motion can be accomplished using equipment such as a stationary bike. The physical therapist will also employ assisted exercises to increase the joint's range of motion.
Increased muscle strength
Rebuilding muscle strength in the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles is vital after knee replacement surgery. A physical therapist will prescribe several muscle strength exercises along with neuromuscular electric stimulation (NMES) to further assist quadricep strength.
Improved balance
Single-leg strengthening exercises will help to increase balance after surgery. A limited range of motion and weakened muscles can affect balance. Focusing on balance will help to improve normal walking.
Scar tissue management
Scar tissue massage can help to eliminate the tightness typically felt from scar tissue that develops post-surgery. Physical therapists will use different techniques to help loosen the skin around scar tissue to ensure it moves around normally.
Gait training
Typically, after knee replacement surgery, the patient will need the assistance of a cane, crutches, or a walker. Gait training therapy will help a patient regain a normal gait once a cane, crutches, or walker is no longer necessary.
Activity-specific training
Routine activities, such as getting on and off a ladder or climbing a ladder, will require some retraining. Physical therapists will introduce these movements in a controlled and safe setting, allowing the body to relearn these movements.
Walking
Walking is among the best exercises to do after knee replacement surgery. With guidance from a physical therapist, the patient can begin retraining the body to walk normally. This will begin with the assistance of crutches, walkers, or a cane and eventually lead to unassisted walking.
Post-knee replacement surgery physical therapy is crucial
Knee replacement surgery is the first step to pain-free mobility. Working with a physical therapist specializing in knee replacement therapy is essential to regain full mobility. Avoiding this necessary step will prolong the healing process.
Liberated Rehabilitation is a mobile physical therapy service in the Phoenix metro area specializing in fully personalized in-home physical therapy. We provide tailored physical therapy in the home or work setting for faster, better recovery. Call (602)755-2276 to schedule an appointment.
