At Dube Orthopedics and Physical Therapy, we guide hundreds of Tennessee patients through their knee replacement journeys each year. This comprehensive guide will help you understand what to expect before, during, and after knee replacement surgery.
Is Knee Replacement Surgery Right for You?
Knee replacement surgery, also known as total knee arthroplasty, becomes an option when conservative treatments no longer provide adequate relief. You might be ready for knee replacement if you experience severe knee pain that significantly limits your daily activities or keeps you awake at night. Many patients come to us after struggling with basic movements like walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from chairs. If you’ve tried medications, injections, or physical therapy without lasting success, and X-rays show clear signs of arthritis, it may be time to consider surgical intervention.
Types of Knee Replacement Surgery
Total Knee Replacement
The most common procedure involves replacing all joint surfaces with artificial components. This includes the end of the thighbone (femur), top of the shinbone (tibia), and the undersurface of the kneecap (patella).
Partial Knee Replacement
For patients with damage limited to one area of the knee, a partial replacement might be appropriate. This procedure preserves healthy bone and ligaments while replacing only the damaged portion.
Preparing for Surgery
Proper preparation can significantly improve your surgical outcome. Physical preparation plays a crucial role in your surgery’s success. We recommend participating in pre-operative physical therapy to build strength and flexibility. It’s also important to strengthen your upper body muscles, as you’ll need them for using assistive devices during recovery. Maintaining a healthy weight and stopping smoking, if applicable, can significantly improve your surgical outcomes.
Home Preparation
Creating a safe and convenient recovery environment is essential. We recommend arranging your living space for single-level living during initial recovery. Install safety bars in bathrooms and remove potential trip hazards like loose rugs. Many patients find it helpful to prepare meals in advance and arrange for assistance during the first few weeks of recovery.
What to Expect During Surgery
Modern knee replacement surgery typically takes 1-2 hours. During the procedure, your surgeon will carefully remove damaged cartilage and bone before placing metal components and installing a plastic spacer. They’ll test your new joint’s range of motion before closing the surgical site. Most Tennessee hospitals require a 1-3 day stay following surgery to ensure proper initial recovery and pain management.
The Recovery Timeline
Immediate Post-Surgery (Days 1-3)
The first few days after surgery focus on basic recovery and movement. You’ll begin gentle exercises while still in the hospital, learn to use assistive devices, and take your first supported steps. Pain management during this phase is crucial for enabling necessary movement and exercise.
Early Recovery (Weeks 1-3)
As you transition home, outpatient physical therapy becomes a central part of your recovery. You’ll progress from using a walker to crutches as your strength and confidence improve. During this phase, managing swelling and pain while performing prescribed home exercises creates the foundation for successful recovery.
Progressive Recovery (Weeks 4-12)
During this phase, you’ll see significant improvements in your mobility and independence. Activity levels increase gradually as you build strength and flexibility. Most patients return to light daily activities and may transition to using a cane for support.
Long-Term Recovery (3-12 months)
The final phase of recovery focuses on returning to normal activities while maintaining proper joint function. Continuing your strengthening exercises and staying physically active will help ensure optimal long-term results.
Physical Therapy’s Role in Recovery
At Dube Orthopedics and Physical Therapy, we create customized rehabilitation programs that evolve with your progress. Early treatment focuses on managing pain and swelling while improving basic movement patterns. As you progress, we introduce more advanced strengthening exercises, balance training, and functional movement patterns to help you return to your desired activities.
Tips for Successful Recovery
Managing pain effectively is crucial for optimal recovery. Follow your prescribed medication schedules and use ice and elevation as recommended. It’s important to pace your activities and listen to your body’s signals. Most patients benefit from finding a balance between staying active and allowing adequate rest.
Long-Term Outlook
Modern knee replacements can last 15-20 years or longer with proper care. Success depends largely on maintaining a healthy weight and staying physically active while avoiding high-impact activities. Regular follow-up appointments and continuing prescribed exercises help ensure your new joint’s longevity.
Insurance and Recovery Support
At Dube Orthopedics and Physical Therapy, we understand that navigating insurance coverage can be challenging. Our team works closely with most major insurance providers in Tennessee to verify your coverage and explain benefits. We’ll coordinate with your surgical team to ensure a smooth transition through each phase of recovery.
Take the Next Step
If you’re considering knee replacement surgery or preparing for an upcoming procedure, our experienced team at Dube Orthopedics and Physical Therapy is here to help. We offer comprehensive support from pre-operative conditioning through post-operative rehabilitation, all delivered through convenient locations throughout Tennessee.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can support your knee replacement journey. Call (615) 391-4545 or visit our website to find the location nearest you.
Remember, successful knee replacement outcomes depend heavily on committed rehabilitation and expert physical therapy care. Let our experienced team guide you through every step of your recovery.
