Undergoing a total knee replacement is a significant step toward regaining mobility and living pain-free. While the surgery itself is critical, your recovery process—including physical therapy and targeted exercises—is what ensures long-term success. At True Health and Performance, we specialize in post-operative care, helping individuals like you recover safely, regain strength, and return to your favorite activities.
In this blog, we’ll outline what to expect after a total knee replacement, including average recovery timelines, physical therapy milestones, and the best exercises to support your journey at True Health and Performance in Kearney, MO,
Average Recovery Timeline for Total Knee Replacement
Recovery from a total knee replacement varies based on individual factors such as age, overall health, and adherence to physical therapy. However, most patients follow a general timeline:
- Weeks 1-2: Focus is on pain management, reducing swelling, and initiating gentle movement. Patients typically use walking aids (walker or crutches) and begin simple range-of-motion exercises.
- Weeks 3-6: Mobility and strength improve as physical therapy intensifies. Walking aids may no longer be needed as you regain confidence in your knee.
- Weeks 7-12: Patients experience significant improvement in function, strength, and range of motion. Many people can resume low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, or light walking.
- 3-6 Months: Most individuals return to their daily routines with minimal discomfort. Continued physical therapy may still be needed for optimal recovery.
While recovery timelines can vary, a combination of targeted exercises and consistent physical therapy is key to achieving the best results.
How Long Do You Need Physical Therapy After Knee Replacement?
Physical therapy typically begins within 1-3 days after surgery and may last 6-12 weeks, depending on your progress. The first few weeks focus on:
- Reducing swelling and pain.
- Restoring knee range of motion.
- Relearning safe movement patterns like walking, sitting, and standing.
As therapy progresses, the focus shifts to strengthening the muscles around your knee, improving balance, and regaining full mobility.
At True Health and Performance, our licensed physical therapists develop individualized recovery plans tailored to your needs, ensuring you progress safely while maximizing your outcomes.
Best Exercises to Improve Flexibility, Strength, and Mobility Post-Surgery
Exercises play a vital role in your recovery process. Below are some of the best exercises to perform after a total knee replacement to regain strength, improve flexibility, and reduce stiffness:
1. Heel Slides
- Purpose: Improve knee flexibility.
- How to Do It: Lie on your back with your legs straight. Slowly slide your heel toward your glutes, bending your knee as far as possible. Hold for 5 seconds, then straighten your leg. Repeat 10-15 times.
2. Quad Sets
- Purpose: Strengthen your quadriceps (front thigh muscles).
- How to Do It: Sit or lie with your legs straight. Tighten your thigh muscles, pushing the back of your knee into the floor. Hold for 5-10 seconds. Repeat 10-15 times.
3. Straight-Leg Raises
- Purpose: Strengthen the quadriceps without knee strain.
- How to Do It: Lie on your back, straighten your leg, and lift it 12 inches off the ground. Hold for 5 seconds, then slowly lower it. Repeat 10-15 times.
4. Seated Knee Bends
- Purpose: Increase knee flexibility.
- How to Do It: Sit on a chair with your feet flat. Slide your surgical leg backward under the chair to bend the knee. Hold for 5 seconds, then return to the starting position. Repeat 10-15 times.
5. Stationary Cycling
- Purpose: Improve knee mobility and overall leg strength.
- How to Do It: Use a stationary bike at a low resistance. Start with partial revolutions and gradually progress to full rotations.
At True Health and Performance, our team will guide you through these exercises safely, ensuring you perform them with the proper form to maximize results.
Tips to Loosen Stiff Knees and Regain Range of Motion
Knee stiffness is a common challenge after surgery. Here are a few tips to help loosen your knee and improve mobility:
- Stay Consistent with Physical Therapy: Your physical therapist will use manual therapy, stretches, and exercises tailored to reduce stiffness.
- Use Heat and Ice: Apply heat to relax the knee muscles and ice to reduce swelling.
- Massage Therapy: Gentle massage can help reduce muscle tension and improve circulation, aiding mobility.
- Daily Movement: Perform your prescribed exercises regularly and avoid prolonged sitting.
- Low-Impact Activities: Activities like swimming and stationary cycling are excellent for improving flexibility without stressing the joint.
At True Health and Performance, our team combines manual therapy, stretching, and tailored exercises to help you regain full function quickly and effectively.
Why Choose True Health and Performance for Your Post-Surgery Recovery?
At True Health and Performance, we provide comprehensive care to support your recovery after total knee replacement surgery. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Personalized Treatment Plans: We customize physical therapy programs to match your needs and goals.
- Expert Therapists: Our licensed physical therapists specialize in post-surgical rehabilitation, ensuring safe and effective recovery.
- Holistic Services: In addition to physical therapy, we offer massage therapy and functional training to accelerate healing and reduce stiffness.
- Convenient Location: We are located near [Your City], making it easy for you to access care.
Start Your Recovery with True Health and Performance
Recovering from a total knee replacement is a journey that requires time, patience, and the right support. With the guidance of experienced physical therapists, personalized exercises, and dedicated care, you can regain strength, flexibility, and confidence in your knee.
If you’re looking for the best physical therapy after knee replacement near Kearney Missouri, True Health and Performance is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your first session and take the next step toward a pain-free, active life!