Importance Of Physical Therapy When people think of total knee replacement, all they can think about is being pain-free when they walk. And that is the point of a total knee replacement is to get back to a point of ambulation again and pain free! A great physical therapist will encourage you to start ambulation soon after a total knee replacement. Depending on the case, it might take a couple of days to get back on your feet.
Now that the surgical procedure is done, it’s your turn to make sure the surgery is a complete success. That means working to restore strength and mobility to your knee. Mild cases for total knee replacements can get back on their feet with the help of a walker or other orthopedic device that provides support during recovery, so how important is physical therapy after a total knee replacement?
Physical Therapy After a Total Knee Replacement
It is a difficult decision to replace the knee. The knee is one of the most important joints of the body. Of course, after consulting with your team of medical professionals, you are on the road to a total knee replacement. A knee replacement is the result of disease, arthritis, or significant injury. While it may be extreme, it is the best option for those who have not responded well to other treatment options.
Physical therapists are an essential part of the overall healthcare team of professionals that will not only help after the total knee replacement, but before it too. Having a physical therapist to help prepare for the total knee replacement surgery means you have a plan ready to get you back on your feet once the surgery is over.
Physical therapy after a total knee replacement offers:
● Strengthening the muscles around the joint, the thigh, and the leg. Just because your knee is replaced does not mean your muscles should get weaker.
● Improved range of motion to help restore movement in the leg.
● Balance training. You might have a challenging time getting acclimated to the new knee.
Physical therapy is an important part of the total knee replacement process. Finding a great physical therapist will help you before, during, and after the total knee replacement.
According to Web MD, “Your doctor and physical therapist will lay out a series of exercises you should do when you are about to be discharged. Here are some exercise goals they likely will set for you:
- Walk for short periods — first inside your house, then outside — to increase mobility.
- Slowly climb stairs, do chores, and work on other everyday activities.
- Continue to do the knee-strengthening exercises that you learned from the hospital’s physical therapist.
Some patients decide to rehab at home. For many, that might not be a bad idea. Studies show that patients who receive
physical therapy at home do as well as those who go to an inpatient facility.
What exercises you do and how long you do them depend on your age and your overall health. The length of time you spend rehabbing your knee — as an inpatient or outpatient — will vary. Expect to work with a physical therapist for at least a few weeks after your surgery. Most patients can take care of themselves within 3 to 6 weeks.”