Webster Groves, MO

Webster Groves, MO

Contact Axes to return to the activities you love in a safe and effective manner after your TKR surgery.

Total Knee Replacement Physical Therapy in Webster Groves, MO. Total Knee Replacement (TKR) surgery can be a great help to residents of Webster Groves, MO suffering from debilitating knee conditions. By replacing worn-down or damaged tissue with an artificial joint, TKR offers a chance to get back to the lifestyle they enjoy. However, the surgery itself is only part of the journey towards full recovery and improved quality of life. The role of physical therapy in the 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 our patients through this process, delivering professional healthcare, supporting you, and helping you back to the things you love in a safe and effective manner. We collaborate with you, your surgeon, and any other medical professionals involved in your care to create personalized, scientifically-backed treatment plans. If you are about to undergo knee replacement surgery or have already had the procedure done and are looking for a physical therapist in Webster Groves, MO, contact Axes online or reach out to the location nearest you to begin your recovery journey today.

About Total Knee Replacement Surgery in Webster Groves, MO

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

The Process of TKR Surgery

  • Preoperative Evaluation: Before the surgery, patients are subjected to a comprehensive evaluation, including physical examinations, MRIs and X-Rays, and discussions about medical history. This phase also involves planning for the surgery and recovery, introducing prehabilitation exercises to strengthen the knee.
  • Surgical Procedure: The surgery involves 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 constructed from metal and plastic. The back of the patella (kneecap) may also be resurfaced 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 strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve flexibility.
  • Recovery and Rehabilitation: The recovery period differs but typically requires 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 dedication to physical therapy and exercises at home.

Total Knee Replacement Physical Therapy in Webster Groves, MO | TKR Recovery | Physical Therapy Near Webster Groves

Pre-Surgery Total Knee Replacement Physical Therapy in Webster Groves, MO

Any surgery, though it may be in your best interest at the end of the day, will always result in some degree of trauma to your tissues. Prehabilitation, or pre-surgery physical therapy, holds a critical role in preparing your body for the demands of surgery and the recovery process. Participating in physical therapy before your surgery can significantly impact your recovery speed and success. Here’s how pre-surgery physical therapy in Webster Groves, MO can benefit you:

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

Key Pre-Surgery Exercises

While the specifics of each program will depend on your unique total knee replacement surgery and recovery, your prehabilitation may involve:

  • Quad Sets: Position yourself with your legs straight in front of you, tighten the thigh muscles of your surgery leg, and attempt to straighten the knee. Maintain this position for 5 seconds and relax.
  • Straight Leg Raises: Lying down, tighten your thigh muscles and lift your leg a few inches off the floor. Hold for a few seconds and bring it down slowly.
  • Ankle Pumps: Flex your foot up and down by moving 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 Webster Groves, MO physical therapist, are designed to strengthen your body for the surgery ahead and lay the groundwork for a smoother, more effective recovery.

Early Post-Surgery Phase

Discovering the perfect physical therapy in Webster Groves for your post-surgical rehabilitation is crucial to establishing a robust foundation for recovery. Here’s a closer look at the key objectives and exercises in the early post-surgery phase.

Post-TKR Surgery Goals

Your Webster Groves, MO physical therapist will create a customized treatment plan to help with:

  • Pain Management: Effective pain control is essential for promoting movement and engagement with 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 prescribed compression stockings or anticoagulant medications.
  • Early Mobilization: Beginning gentle exercises soon after surgery aids in recovery by improving circulation, decreasing swelling, and starting the process of regaining mobility.

Key Exercises and Activities After TKR Surgery

  • Ankle Pumps: Pumping your ankles up and down enhances circulation in your legs, aiding to prevent blood clots. Perform this exercise frequently throughout the day.
  • Leg Lifts: Lying flat with your unaffected leg bent and your surgical leg straight, tighten your thigh muscle and raise your surgical leg off the bed. Hold for 5 seconds and then gently 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. Gradually slide your foot back under the chair as far as comfortable, 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. Over time, as balance and strength improve, you can move 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 Webster Groves, MO, the focus transitions towards you becoming more independent and returning to the things you enjoy most. The intermediate recovery phase entails a more intensive physical therapy regimen, with treatment modalities backed by science that are designed to challenge your knee within the limits 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 stretching exercises to improve the range of motion.
  • Increasing Mobility: Adding more active exercises to boost walking, balance, and the ability to perform daily activities.

Intermediate Recovery Exercises

Some exercises you may engage in with your Webster Groves, MO physical therapist might involve:

  • 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 building muscle and the buoyancy required for mobility exercises.
  • Stair Climbing and Descending: Working on stair climbing under supervision helps rebuild the skill to navigate steps with safety and confidence.

Each of these exercises must be performed under the guidance of your Webster Groves, MO physical therapist, who can modify the intensity and volume according to your recovery progress and pain levels.

Advanced Recovery and Maintenance After TKR Surgery in Webster Groves, MO

As you advance past your intermediate recovery, the focus of total knee replacement physical therapy transitions towards more advanced stages of 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 setting the stage for a return to normal activities, whether that means participating in sports and recreational hobbies or playing with your grandkids without pain.

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 discussed with your Webster Groves, MO physical therapist, highlighting the importance of regular exercise and protective measures to sustain 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 Webster Groves, MO

Total knee replacement surgery is a significant but beneficial decision for those dealing with debilitating knee pain and mobility issues. From the preparatory stages before surgery to the later stages of recovery and ongoing 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 Webster Groves, MO is unique for every individual, but with the best team in your corner you can return to the activities you love safely and effectively.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we recognize the challenges and concerns that come with total knee replacement recovery. Our dedicated team of physical therapists is here to support you through each phase, providing personalized care that caters to your specific needs, desired lifestyle, and goals. We are dedicated to supporting you in attaining the best possible recovery outcomes, employing 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.

Services Offered

Services Offered
  • Physical Therapy
    • Pre/Post Surgical Rehabilitation
    • Acute Injury Management
    • Chronic Injury Management
  • Occupational Therapy
    • Certified Hand Therapy
  • Work Conditioning/Hardening
  • Functional Capacity Evaluations
  • Vestibular Therapy and Post-Concussion Rehabilitation
  • Sports Physical Therapy
  • Trigger Point Dry Needling
  • Pediatric Orthopedic Physical Therapy
  • Geriatric Orthopedic Physical Therapy
  • Women's Health Therapy - Pelvic Floor
  • Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTYM)
  • Spine Specialty – Manual Therapy Certified
  • Free Injury Screenings
  • Kinesio Taping®
  • Blood Flow Restriction Therapy

Our Team

Stephen Brunjes
OTR/L, CEAS
Scott Gallant
PT, FAAOMPT, BDN
Stacey Collins
Clinic Director, PT, DPT, CMPT
Stephanie Heubi
Front Office

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Injuries and pain shouldn’t keep you from moving and doing the things you love.