After knee replacement surgery, rehabilitation plays a crucial role in determining the long-term success of the operation. This process is ongoing for several months, beginning immediately after surgery till full recovery, which sometimes takes up to a year. This all depends on the complexity of each individual case and the patient’s general health condition. Rehabilitation has three main objectives: restoring muscle strength, improving mobility, and ensuring the correct functioning of the prosthesis. After the surgery, physical therapists begin with light exercises to prevent stiffness and improve blood flow. Exercises increase in intensity as the patient’s condition gets better, with a target to strengthen the knee muscles in order to support the new joint. Furthermore, it is essential that the patient learns to walk correctly with the prosthesis. In the early stages, this could involve using assistive devices such as crutches or a walker, with a gradual shift to more independent walking. Rehabilitation also includes patient education regarding prosthesis care and methods of avoiding activities that might endanger the newly implanted joints.

Immediately after surgery, the primary goal is pain management and inflammation control. It is normal to experience some degree of pain and swelling post-surgery. To deal with these challenges, the medical team may prescribe pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory medications, depending on each individual case, as well as recommend applying ice to the operated area to reduce swelling. Early mobilization is equally crucial at this stage. Light exercises, such as plantar flexion and dorsiflexion, help promote blood circulation and prevent joint stiffness. Although these movements may be minimal, these exercises have a significant impact on reducing the risk of postoperative complications, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Patients may also be told to begin walking using aids, such as crutches or a walker, which help promote early mobility.

This phase focuses on gradually increasing the intensity of the exercises. As pain subsides and inflammation is reduced. Patients may start doing more challenging exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding their knees. Improving knee strength and stability are essential for a quicker and more complete recovery. Physical therapy plays a vital role in this phase. Under the guidance of physical therapists, patients perform a series of exercises designed to improve knee mobility and strength. These include stretching exercises to improve flexibility and specific activities to strengthen the quadriceps and hamstring muscles. Activities like walking on flat surfaces, going up and down the stairs and balance exercises can be introduced during this phase.

This phase begins approximately three months post-surgery. Patients continue with the exercises learned in previous phases, with a focus on long-term strength and mobility preservation. This is an essential phase to guarantee that the effects of rehabilitation will last a lifetime. Regular checkups are critical to track your rehabilitation progress and ensure that everything is going according to plan. Your doctor evaluates your knee motion, muscle strength, and overall function and adjusts your treatment plan if needed. Transparency is key, that’s why patients should discuss any concerns or challenges they may be experiencing in their daily lives or during any physical activity. During all these phases, Physiowell integrates its unique approach, combining orthopedics and chiropractic, providing patients with comprehensive support, ensuring that every step of their rehabilitation is carefully designed and executed. This unique method not only speeds up recovery, but also ensures more satisfying results on the long run.