Knee pain affects approximately 25% of the adult population worldwide. There are many causes and treatment methods for knee pain. While there are many options for treatment, a common route for seeking treatment Singapore is:
If you’d like to find out more about physiotherapy for knee pain due to meniscus injury do read our article https://www.therehabstudio.sg/post/meniscus-injury-my-clicking-or-locking-knee to find out more!
Total knee replacement is one of the most common knee surgeries done in an adult with chronic and moderate to severe osteoarthritis. However, even when the surgery is completed, rehabilitation by a physiotherapist is still necessary to help the individual recover and regain maximum function.
The surgery involves the removal of the arthritic parts of the knee joint and placing a prosthesis over the affected areas.
This is usually done under general anesthesia, where the patient is unconscious.
Other than waiting for the wound to heal; pain, swelling and limitation of movement are to be expected after surgery. Therefore, your physiotherapist will prioritize pain management, increasing range of movement and strength recovery right after surgery. This is also a good time to discuss your goals with your physiotherapist so that he/she can work with you towards achieving them.
With a combination of soft tissue release, joint mobilization and prescribed home exercises, most surgery candidates are expected to return to normal function in about 12 weeks. This is with the exception of a minority who may suffer from complications.
Below are a few of the exercises that you may be told to do during your post surgical rehabilitative journey. Do consult your physiotherapist and/or medical team before attempting them after surgery. They are also NOT to be done if you have been diagnosed with Deep Vein Thrombosis and have not been cleared for exercise or physiotherapy.
Ankle Pumps
This is important in ensuring blood circulation in your lower limbs. Point your toes away from you, and back up towards yourself. To be done slowly, about 10 times per hour, or as prescribed by your physiotherapist.
Assisted Heel Slides
Necessary for ensuring that movement in your knee is maintained and increased. Use a towel or blanket to move your foot towards yourself and bending your knee. Hold at the end of the bend for 3-5 seconds or as tolerated. To be done in 3 sets of 10 daily, or as prescribed by your physiotherapist.
Inner Range Quad Strengthening
Start to strengthen the muscles at the front of your thigh by lifting your foot off the bed/ground/mat. Place a pillow or rolled towel below your knee and lift your heel off. Hold for 3 to 5 seconds before placing your heel slowly back down. To be done in 3 sets of 10, or as prescribed by your physiotherapist.
Still unsure about the total knee replacement and rehabilitation? Contact any of our physiotherapists to find out more today!
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