Nowadays, most people are required to try some physiotherapy prior to having a knee replacement with a lot of patients not finding much benefit from it as their condition will be too far gone so they lose faith. This article will give you more information on why physiotherapy is so key. The main purpose of physiotherapy after a knee replacement is to help with mobility, improve your range of movement and strengthen your muscles to allow independence and get a better outcome from your surgery.
What is physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy helps to restore movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness or disability. It can also help to reduce your risk of injury or illness in the future. It can improve your physical activity level and help you to prevent any injuries to your new knee. Physiotherapists are specially-trained practitioners who usually work as part of a multi-disciplinary team. They work with your doctors and nurses to come up with a plan to support you in your recovery, and to help get you “back on your feet”. Physiotherapy takes a holistic approach.
What do physiotherapists do?
Physiotherapists consider the body as a whole, rather than just focusing solely on your knee. They’ll offer you a bit of each of the following things:
Education and advice. Physiotherapists can give general advice about things that can affect your daily lives, such as posture and correct lifting or carrying techniques to help prevent injuries as you recover.
Tailored exercises for you. Physiotherapists will recommend exercises to improve your general health and mobility and to strengthen your new knee.
Manual therapy. Physiotherapists can use their hands to help relieve pain and stiffness and to encourage better movement of the body.
What happens after discharge?
Once you are discharged, you are required to continue the exercises given to you in hospital. Once at home, outpatient physiotherapy sessions normally commence between week 1 and week 2. This is to continue and progress your mobility, movement and strength. It is important to attend these sessions as you will have an opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have regarding your rehabilitation
While at home, take an active role by:
Keeping active and moving regularly
Taking regular pain medication
Managing swelling
Exercising regularly
How can I prepare for my physiotherapy session?
It is important to ensure your pain is well controlled before attending your physiotherapy session so try and time your prescribed medication accordingly. This will allow maximum participation and cooperation with the requirements of the session. Wear loose, comfortable clothing which will allow you to move easily. If you’re using crutches or a walker while you recover, have these on hand as well.
At the end of the session use ice pack over the operated area, that is comforting.
What happens next?
The physiotherapist will continue to wean you off walking aids until you can walk independently
They may put you on a stationary bicycle or recommended you use one if you have one at home. It is normal to struggle to pedal all the way round so you must start with some gentle forward and backward movements until your range of motion improves.
As you continue to progress, they may give you some guidance on when you will be able to return to more active sport such as swimming, golf or cycling.