Total Knee Replacement Physical Therapy in Mackenzie, MO. Total Knee Replacement (TKR) surgery offers significant benefits to individuals in Mackenzie, MO experiencing severe knee arthritis. By substituting worn-down or damaged tissue with an artificial joint, TKR offers a chance to regain lost mobility and significantly reduce pain. However, the surgery itself is only part of the journey towards full recovery and enhanced quality of life. The role of physical therapy in the recovery process is crucial.

Recovery from total knee replacement surgery can be considered a marathoninstead of a sprint. It necessitates patience, persistence, and the right guidance. At Axes Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to guiding our patients through this process, delivering professional healthcare, supporting you, and getting you back to the activities you enjoy most safely and effectively. We collaborate with you, your surgeon, and any other medical professionals involved in your care to create customized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. If you are about to undergo knee replacement surgery or have already undergone the procedure and are looking for a physical therapist in Mackenzie, MO, contact Axes online or reach out to the location nearest you to kickstart your rehabilitation today.

About Total Knee Replacement Surgery in Mackenzie, MO

Total Knee Replacement (TKR) surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, involves a surgical process performed to replace the damaged surfaces of the knee joint with prosthetic components. This surgery is generally recommended for individuals experiencing severe knee pain and mobility issues due to trauma, arthritis, or other degenerative conditions. The goal of TKR is to restore function, relieve pain, and improve the quality of life for patients who have not found relief from other treatments such as medications, injections, or physical therapy by itself.

The Process of TKR Surgery

• Preoperative Evaluation: Before the surgery, patients are subjected to a comprehensive evaluation, comprising physical examinations, imaging tests, and conversations about medical history. This phase also involves planning for the surgery and recovery, featuring prehabilitation exercises to strengthen the knee.
• Surgical Procedure: The surgery involves excising the damaged cartilage and bone surfaces from the ends of the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shin bone). These surfaces are then replaced with artificial components constructed from metal and plastic. The back of the patella (kneecap) may also be refinished depending on the condition of the knee.
• Postoperative Care: Directly after the surgery, the prevention of complications and pain management are prioritized. Physical therapy starts as early as possible to assist in the recovery process. Initially, exercises concentrate on reducing swelling, preventing blood clots, and initiating gentle movements to restore range of motion. Gradually, the exercises become more intense to build the muscles around the knee and enhance flexibility.
• Recovery and Rehabilitation: The recovery period differs but generally involves at least several weeks of physical therapy for total knee arthroplasty. Patients are taught exercises to improve knee function and gradually return to their daily activities. Long-term success relies heavily on the patient’s commitment to physical therapy and exercises at home.

Pre-Surgery Total Knee Replacement Physical Therapy in Mackenzie, MO

Any surgery, even if ultimately the best thing for you, an “injury” to your tissue that needs to heal. Prehabilitation, or pre-surgery physical therapy, assumes a vital role in readying your body for the demands of surgery and safely and completely recovering. Participating in physical therapy before your surgery can dramatically influence your recovery speed and success. Here’s how pre-surgery physical therapy in Mackenzie, MO can benefit you:

• Strengthens Muscles: Strengthening the muscles around the knee aids in supporting the new joint and can lead to a faster recovery.
• Improves Flexibility: Increased flexibility improves recovery, allowing for simpler manipulation and mobilization after the surgery.
• Educates Patients: Comprehending the recovery process, exercises, and the use of assistive devices before surgery reduces post-operative anxiety.

Key Pre-Surgery Exercises

Depending on the specifics of your total knee replacement surgery and recovery, your prehabilitation may involve:

• Quad Sets: Position yourself with your legs straight in front of you, contract the thigh muscles of your surgery leg, and try to straighten the knee. Hold for 5 seconds and relax.
• Straight Leg Raises: Lying down, engage your thigh muscles and raise your leg a few inches off the floor. Keep it elevated for a few seconds and lower slowly.
• Ankle Pumps: Flex your foot up and down by flexing your ankle. This exercise enhances circulation and greatly reduces the possibility of blood clot formation.

These exercises, along with other treatment modalities recommended by your Mackenzie, MO physical therapist, are designed to fortify your body for the surgery ahead and set the foundation for a more seamless, more effective recovery.

Early Post-Surgery Phase

Finding the perfect physical therapy in Mackenzie for your post-surgical rehabilitation can help securing a solid foundation for recovery. Here’s an in-depth examination at the key objectives and exercises in the early post-surgery phase.

Post-TKR Surgery Goals

Your Mackenzie, MO physical therapist will develop a personalized treatment plan geared towards:

• Pain Management: Efficient pain control is vital for promoting movement and participation in physical therapy.
• Prevention of Blood Clots: Prompt movement and specific exercises contribute to reducing the risk of blood clots, a common concern after total knee replacement. You may also be advised to use compression stockings or anticoagulant medications.
• Early Mobilization: Beginning gentle exercises shortly following surgery contributes to recovery by enhancing circulation, reducing swelling, and initiating the process of restoring mobility.

Key Exercises and Activities After TKR Surgery

• Ankle Pumps: Moving your ankles up and down enhances circulation in your legs, aiding to prevent blood clots. Do this exercise frequently throughout the day.
• Leg Lifts: Lying flat with your unaffected leg bent and your surgical leg straight, engage your thigh muscle and raise your surgical leg off the bed. Hold for 5 seconds and then slowly lower. This exercise strengthens your quadriceps and increases knee stability.
• Knee Bends (Seated and Lying):
  • Seated: Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the ground. Slowly slide your foot back under the chair as far as possible, bending the knee. Hold for a few seconds and slide back.
  • Lying: Lying on your back, place a small rolled towel under your ankle. Bend your knee by sliding your foot towards your buttocks, keeping your heel on the bed.
• Use of Walking Aids: At first, you’ll likely need the assistance of a walker or crutches. Over time, as balance and strength improve, you can transition to using a cane, and eventually return to walking on your own.

Intermediate TKR Recovery Phase

As you progress past the initial weeks of your total knee replacement physical therapy in Mackenzie, MO, the focus shifts towards you becoming more independent and getting back to the things you enjoy most. The intermediate recovery phase entails a more rigorous physical therapy regimen, with treatment modalities backed by science that are intended to test your knee within the boundaries of safety and comfort.

Goals for Intermediate Recovery

• Improving Strength: Exercises aimed at strengthening become more rigorous to build muscle around the knee.
• Enhancing Flexibility: Greater emphasis on stretching exercises to improve the range of motion.
• Increasing Mobility: Adding more dynamic exercises to boost walking, balance, and the ability to perform daily activities.

Intermediate Recovery Exercises

Some exercises you may do with your Mackenzie, MO physical therapist could include:

• Stationary Cycling: Starting at a light pace, stationary biking helps improving knee flexibility and strength.
• Water Therapy: Water exercises lessen the strain on your knee while providing resistance for strengthening and the buoyancy needed for mobility exercises.
• Stair Climbing and Descending: Working on stair climbing under supervision aims to rebuild the ability to navigate steps with safety and confidence.

Each of these exercises should be performed under the guidance of your Mackenzie, MO physical therapist, who can tailor the exercises according to your recovery progress and pain levels.

Advanced Recovery and Maintenance After TKR Surgery in Mackenzie, MO

As you move beyond your intermediate recovery, the focus of total knee replacement physical therapy shifts towards more advanced recovery, long-term maintenance of your knee health, and reclaiming the lifestyle you had before your knee issues. This phase is about consolidating the gains made during the earlier stages and preparing for a return to normal activities, whether that means engaging in sports and recreational hobbies or playing with your grandkids pain-free.

Advanced Strengthening and Balance Exercises

• Squats and Lunges: Squats and lunges further strengthen the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, crucial for knee support and stability.
• Resistance Training: Utilizing resistance bands or weights to strengthen your muscles, enhancing both strength and endurance.

Long-term health and wellness strategies will also be explored with your Mackenzie, MO physical therapist, highlighting the importance of regular exercise and protective measures to maintain knee health. At Axes, we are firm believers in patient education as a way to secure the best possible results for our patients.

Contact Axes For Your Total Knee Replacement Physical Therapy in Mackenzie, MO

Total knee replacement surgery is a considerable but rewarding journey for those dealing with debilitating knee pain and mobility issues. From pre-surgery preparation to advanced recovery and maintenance, physical therapy is crucial to rebuilding strength, flexibility, and mobility, ultimately leading to an better quality of life. The journey through total knee replacement physical therapy in Mackenzie, MO is different for each person, but with the right team in your corner you can get back to the activities you love in a safe and effective manner.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize the challenges and concerns that accompany total knee replacement recovery. Our dedicated team of physical therapists is here to guide you through each phase, delivering personalized care that addresses your specific needs, desired lifestyle, and goals. We are focused on supporting you in realizing the best possible recovery outcomes, utilizing evidence-based practices and a compassionate approach to care. Request an appointment online or call the Axes location nearest you to get started in your recovery today.