What is Total Knee Replacement Surgery?

22 Dec What is Total Knee Replacement Surgery?

Total knee replacement surgery is the most common joint replacement surgery. It is performed when the knee joint is damaged due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, some other bone disease or a fracture. It can also be performed if knee pain or alignment problems in the leg prevent a person from performing daily activities. This total knee reaplcement blog is the first in a series of articles discussing total knee replacement surgery and your recovery.

Total knee replacement surgery involves removing the ends of the bone at the knee joint and replacing them with artificial parts. Typically a metal cap is placed on the end of the femur (thighbone) and a plastic cap is placed on the top of the shinbone. Sometimes a plastic cap will also be used to replace the knee cap.

Because this surgery requires complete removal of the knee joint, the decision to have knee replacement surgery should only be made with the consultation of an orthopedic surgeon and a physical therapist. If you decide to have surgery, a physical therapist will be there for you every step of the way.

Physical therapists work with knee replacement patients throughout the entire process of the surgery and recovery. If you are considering total knee replacement surgery, we can help prepare you by addressing factors that contribute to healing times such as obesity. We can also teach you how to correctly use crutches or a walking frame during your recovery. After you’re released from the hospital, we can show you how to regain strength, balance, and range of motion in your knee with effective knee replacement physical therapy. We do everything we can to hasten your return to activity so life with your new knee is better than life with your old knee.

With the help of a physical therapist, you should be able to stop using your crutches or walking frame and resume normal activities six weeks after surgery. However, it may take up to three months for pain and swelling to settle down. Even so, these are still issues we can help you address.  If you would like to learn more about knee replacement surgery and the services we offer regarding it, call us at (662) 282-4949 to make an appointment!