The Stages of Physical Therapy After Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement surgery is a common operation that can help patients recover from injuries or chronic conditions that cause pain and reduced mobility. While the surgery itself is an important step toward healing, the recovery process is where the real progress happens. With a strong focus on physical therapy, patients can rebuild strength, regain mobility, and return to their everyday routines.
Physical therapy plays a vital role in recovery from knee replacement surgery, utilizing exercises and techniques to reduce pain, promote healing, and enhance patient outcomes. Below, we outline the stages of physical therapy after knee replacement surgery to help you understand what to expect.
DISCLAIMER: We recommend that a licensed medical professional approve and supervise all activities mentioned below.
Stage 1: Home Health PT (Weeks 0-2)
Goals: Regain your initial mobility, learn to move safely around the house, and improve your flexibility.
Immediately following your knee replacement surgery, the first couple weeks of treatment will focus on managing pain, reducing swelling, and initiating gentle movement.
You’ll be given a range of exercises to do at home to help you improve your range of motion and prevent stiffness. These are very important during the initial recovery stage. Some of the exercises that may be recommended include:
- Ankle pumps
- Heel slides
- Quad sets
- And more
In addition to exercise, you’ll need to learn how to move safely around your home, such as how to bathe and get dressed. You will want to consider equipment such as shower chairs, benches, grab bars, and non-slip mats. We also suggest wearing loose-fitting clothing that is easy to put on to help reduce unnecessary movement.
If you’re using an assistive device, such as a walker or crutches, ensure you place the weight on your hands, not your operated knee, to help you maintain stability. Keep your movements slow, and avoid being on your feet for a prolonged period.
Stage 2: Outpatient Physical Therapy (Weeks 2-6)
Goals: Achieve better joint stability, regain confidence in daily movement, and progress to more independent mobility.
As your recovery continues, you will transition to outpatient physical therapy, which will introduce you to working with a professional in a formal therapy setting with the help of specialized equipment.
Your physical therapist will help you build strength and increase your range of motion using targeted exercises. These may include:
- Mini squats
- Heel raises
- Calf raises
- Standing knee bends
- And more
Stage 3: Advanced Outpatient Therapy (Weeks 6-12)
Goals: Enhance functional mobility, increase endurance, and prepare for a more active lifestyle.
Further into your recovery, you will work with your physical therapist to complete more intensive strength exercises to target your quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles to support your knee better.
During these sessions, your physical therapist will help you complete exercises that simulate your daily activities, including climbing stairs, bending, and standing for extended periods. You will also be introduced to low-impact aerobic exercise, such as using a stationary bike or swimming to improve the range of motion in the knee, gently strengthen the muscle, and increase endurance.
Stage 4: Return to Normal Activity (Months 3 and Beyond)
Goals: Achieve full, pain-free mobility and return to an active lifestyle.
As you reach the end of your recovery period, your physical therapist will work with you to create a long-term exercise plan to help you maintain strength and flexibility. This plan will include slowly returning to light physical activities and low-impact sports to ensure you do so safely.
Your final session will include a check-in with your physical therapist to review your progress and set any future goals you may have. You may wish to continue working with a physical therapist for some time after your recovery, especially if you plan on returning to intense sports or activities.
Before you know it, you’ll be able to achieve pain-free mobility and return to your active lifestyle.
Knee Replacement Surgery in Idaho Falls
Physical therapy is a crucial part of knee replacement surgery recovery. Working with your physical therapist will help you achieve your goals and help maintain the results of your surgery.
It’s important to establish open and honest communication with your surgeon and physical therapist to ensure your treatment plan is right for you. With time, patience, and dedication, you can fully recover and enjoy your favorite activities once again.
Could knee replacement surgery make a difference in your life? Contact Altenburg Joint Replacement today to discuss your options and to learn more about knee replacement surgery in Idaho Falls.
