Post-Operative Knee Pain and Physical Therapy Treatment

After knee surgery, such as a total knee replacement or ligament repair, many patients experience pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. However, physical therapy is a key component of the recovery process, as it helps patients regain strength and function in their knees.

Physical Therapy for Post-Operative Knee Pain:

• Pain Management: Therapists use modalities like ice, heat, or electrical stimulation to help manage pain and swelling in the initial post-operative phase.

• Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretching and joint mobilization techniques can help restore the full range of motion in the knee, crucial for getting back to normal activities.

• Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee joint, particularly the quadriceps and hamstrings, helps improve stability and support, reducing the load on the knee and minimizing discomfort.

Evidence Supporting Physical Therapy for Knee Recovery:

• A 2015 study in JAMA found that patients who underwent physical therapy after knee replacement surgery showed significantly better function and less pain compared to those who did not engage in post-operative rehabilitation.

• The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) recommends early physical therapy after knee surgery, noting that it can significantly improve outcomes and prevent complications like stiffness or muscle weakness.

Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in helping patients recover from knee surgery, ensuring a quicker, more effective return to daily activities and reducing the likelihood of long-term issues.