Total Knee Replacement Physical Therapy in Warrenton, MO. Total Knee Replacement (TKR) surgery can be a great help to residents of Warrenton, MO dealing with debilitating knee conditions. By replacing worn-down or damaged tissue with an artificial joint, TKR provides a chance to get back to the lifestyle they enjoy. However, the surgery itself is just a step towards full recovery and improved quality of life. The role of physical therapy in the post-operative recovery process is crucial.

Getting back to the life you want after total knee replacement surgery is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires persistence, patience, and guided expertise. At Axes Physical Therapy, we are committed to guiding you through your recovery, delivering professional healthcare, assisting you, and helping you back to the things you enjoy most in a safe and effective manner. We partner with you, your surgeon, and all other medical professionals involved in your care to create tailored, scientifically-backed treatment plans. If you are about to undergo knee replacement surgery or have already undergone the procedure and are seeking a physical therapist in Warrenton, MO, contact Axes online or reach out to the location nearest you to get started with your recovery today.

About Total Knee Replacement Surgery in Warrenton, MO

Total Knee Replacement (TKR) surgery, also called knee arthroplasty, involves a surgical process performed to replace a poorly functioning or no-longer functioning knee joint with prosthetic components. This surgery is generally good for individuals dealing with significant mobility problems and knee pain due to trauma, arthritis, or other degenerative conditions. The goal of TKR is to relieve pain, restore function, and improve the quality of life for patients who need a solution more aggressive than other treatments like prescriptions, injections, or physical therapy alone.

The Process of TKR Surgery

• Preoperative Evaluation: Before the surgery, patients undergo a comprehensive evaluation, including physical examinations, imaging tests, and conversations about medical history. This phase also entails planning for the surgery and recovery, featuring prehabilitation exercises to fortify the knee.
• Surgical Procedure: The surgery entails removing 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 made of metal and plastic. The back of the patella (kneecap) may also be refinished depending on the condition of the knee.
• Postoperative Care: Immediately after the surgery, the prevention of complications and pain management are the first priority. Physical therapy begins as early as possible to aid in the recovery process. Initially, exercises focus on reducing swelling, preventing blood clots, and initiating gentle movements to restore range of motion. Gradually, the exercises become more challenging to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve flexibility.
• Recovery and Rehabilitation: The recovery period varies but generally involves at least several weeks of physical therapy for total knee arthroplasty. Patients are taught exercises to enhance knee function and gradually return to their normal, independent life. Long-term success depends significantly on the patient’s commitment to physical therapy and exercises at home.

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

Any surgery, though it may be ultimately in your best interest, still involves some degree of trauma to your tissues. Prehabilitation, or pre-surgery physical therapy, holds a critical role in preparing your body for the challenges of surgery and the recovery process. Engaging in physical therapy before your surgery can profoundly affect your recovery speed and success. The goals of pre-surgery physical therapy in Warrenton, MO are:

• Strengthens Muscles: Fortifying the muscles around the knee helps supporting the new joint and facilitates quicker recovery.
• Improves Flexibility: Increased flexibility improves recovery, enabling 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 release.
• Straight Leg Raises: While lying flat, engage your thigh muscles and raise your leg a few inches off the floor. Keep it elevated for a few seconds and bring it down 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, among others recommended by your Warrenton, MO physical therapist, are intended to fortify your body for the surgery ahead and lay the groundwork for a more seamless, more effective recovery.

Early Post-Surgery Phase

Identifying the right physical therapy in Warrenton for your post-surgical rehabilitation can help establishing a solid foundation for recovery. Here’s a closer look at the main goals and exercises in the early post-surgery phase.

Post-TKR Surgery Goals

Your Warrenton, MO physical therapist will develop a customized treatment plan geared towards:

• Pain Management: Effective pain control is essential for encouraging movement and participation in physical therapy.
• Prevention of Blood Clots: Early mobilization and certain exercises aid in reducing the risk of blood clots, a common concern after total knee replacement. You may also be prescribed compression stockings or anticoagulant medications.
• Early Mobilization: Starting gentle exercises shortly following surgery helps with recovery by improving circulation, reducing swelling, and starting the process of restoring mobility.

Key Exercises and Activities After TKR Surgery

• Ankle Pumps: Moving your ankles up and down improves circulation in your legs, helping to prevent blood clots. Perform this exercise regularly 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 builds your quadriceps and increases knee stability.
• Knee Bends (Seated and Lying):
  • Seated: Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the ground. Gradually slide your foot back under the chair as far as possible, bending the knee. Maintain 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. Gradually, as strength and balance improve, you can transition to using a cane, and eventually return to walking on your own.

Intermediate TKR Recovery Phase

As you move forward past the initial weeks of your total knee replacement physical therapy in Warrenton, MO, the focus shifts towards you becoming more independent and getting back to the things you enjoy most. The intermediate recovery phase involves a more rigorous physical therapy regimen, with treatment modalities supported by scientific research that are designed 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 fortify muscle around the knee.
• Enhancing Flexibility: Increased emphasis on flexibility workouts to enhance the range of motion.
• Increasing Mobility: Incorporating more active exercises to improve walking, balance, and the ability to perform daily activities.

Intermediate Recovery Exercises

Some exercises you might do with your Warrenton, MO physical therapist could include:

• Stationary Cycling: Beginning at a light pace, stationary biking assists in improving knee flexibility and strength.
• Water Therapy: Water exercises lessen the strain on your knee while providing resistance for building muscle and the buoyancy required for mobility exercises.
• Stair Climbing and Descending: Working on stair climbing under supervision helps rebuild the ability to manage steps with safety and confidence.

Each of these exercises should be performed under the guidance of your Warrenton, MO physical therapist, who can modify the exercises based on your recovery progress and pain levels.

Advanced Recovery and Maintenance After TKR Surgery in Warrenton, MO

As you progress beyond your intermediate recovery, the focus of total knee replacement physical therapy moves towards more advanced stages of recovery, long-term maintenance of your knee health, and regaining the lifestyle you had before your knee issues. This phase is about solidifying the gains made during the earlier stages and getting ready for a return to normal activities, whether that means engaging in sports and recreational hobbies or playing with your grandkids without pain.

Advanced Strengthening and Balance Exercises

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

Long-term health and wellness strategies will also be covered with your Warrenton, MO physical therapist, underscoring the importance of regular exercise and protective measures to preserve knee health. At Axes, we hold a strong conviction in patient education as a way to achieve the best possible results for our patients.

Get in Touch With Axes For Your Total Knee Replacement Physical Therapy in Warrenton, MO

Total knee replacement surgery is a significant 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 essential to restoring strength, flexibility, and mobility, which leads to an enhanced quality of life. The journey through total knee replacement physical therapy in Warrenton, MO is unique for every individual, but with the appropriate support in your corner you can return to the activities you love in a safe and effective manner.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize the challenges and concerns that come with total knee replacement recovery. Our devoted team of physical therapists is here to support you through each phase, offering personalized care that addresses your specific needs, desired lifestyle, and goals. We are committed to supporting you in attaining the best possible recovery outcomes, utilizing evidence-based practices and a thoughtful approach to care. Request an appointment online or call the Axes location nearest you to get started in your recovery today.