Physical Therapy for Total Knee Replacement Patient Information

Publication Date: June 16, 2020

Last Updated: May 17, 2022

Overview

This information includes the physical therapist management of adults with knee osteoarthritis undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
Chronic knee pain is the most common cause of activity limitations and disability in the United States.
This often leads to TKA, also known as total knee replacement, which is one of the most commonly performed orthopedic surgeries.
The most common reason for knee replacement surgery is to relieve severe pain caused by osteoarthritis.
If nonsurgical treatments like medications and using walking supports are no longer helpful, you may want to consider total knee replacement surgery. This is a decision that should be made along with your orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist.
Total knee replacement can help relieve pain and restore function in severely diseased knee joints.
During total knee replacement surgery, the damaged part of your knee is removed and replaced with a man-made implant.
The success of your knee replacement surgery is enhanced with physical therapy before and after surgery.
You, your surgeon and physical therapist are an essential team for producing the best result from your knee replacement. Starting physical therapy care early and following your program through to the end will assure the maximum benefit and quickest recovery time.