Role Of Physiotherapy After a Knee Replacement

A Complete Guide to Recovering Faster Knee replacement surgery is a transformational one for patients suffering from severe pain in the knee, arthritis, or injury. However, the success of the surgery is largely dependent on post-operative care, and physiotherapy is pivotal in ensuring a smooth recovery. This blog will focus on the need for physiotherapy following a knee replacement, its benefits, fundamental treatments, and ways to enhance fast recovery.

Why Is Physiotherapy So Important After a Knee Replacement?

Physiotherapy after knee replacement surgery is essential since it:

✔️ Restores mobility and flexibility
✔️ Strengthens the muscles around the knee
✔️ Takes away pain and swelling
✔️ Makes balance and stability much better
✔️ Avoids complications like blood clots and stiffness

With rehabilitation not done well enough, these patients may have difficulty moving about and may delay their full recovery and effectiveness of the surgery.

Stages of Physiotherapy After a Knee Replacement

1. Immediate Post-Surgery Phase (0-2 Weeks): In the first two weeks after surgery, the focus may be on:

• Pain management using ice and medications the patient may require
• Gentle movements to keep stiffening at bay
• Improving circulation through ankle pumps and leg lifts
• Movement with assistance using a walker or crutches

2. Early Recovery Phase (2-6 Weeks): During this phase, the patient will start:

• Exercises on their feet and weight-bearing exercises to help strengthen leg muscles
• Range of motion exercises to avoid stiffness
• Stationary cycling for flexibility in the knee joint
• Walking slightly longer distances if it is not too painful

3. Advanced Recovery Phase (6-12 Weeks): At this point, the patient should do:

• Strength exercises for the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscle
• Exercises aimed at balance or working on stability
• Able climbing stairs with ease from there on
• Swimming and jogging as appropriate with the doctor

4. Long-Term Recovery (3-6 Months and Beyond): An exercise program to maintain proper knee function
Gradual resumption of duties and sports Physiotherapy if still required

Some Simple Physiotherapy Exercises for Recovering from Knee Replacement

1️⃣. Ankle Pumps – Helps in enhancing blood circulation
2️⃣. Quad Sets – Exercises that strengthen the quadriceps
3️⃣. Heel Slides – Bends the knee to a greater degree
4️⃣. Leg Raises – Strengthens the muscles of thigh
5️⃣. Seated Knee Bends – Increase in flexibility
6️⃣. Step-Ups – Help in improving balance and stability

⚠️Exercise under the supervision of a physiotherapist to avoid straining oneself.

Benefits of Physiotherapy After Knee Replacement
✅ Faster recovery and return to daily life
✅ Enhanced strength and flexibility of the knee
✅ Reduced pain and swelling
✅ Lower chance of post-operative complications
✅ Enhanced confidence to move on the knee

Tips for Smoother Recovery
✔️Keep up with the physiotherapy plan
✔️Eat a balanced diet to facilitate healing
✔️Keep hydrated and include less salt
✔️Walkers should be used to assist at first
✔️Stay positive and patient towards your progression