Knee replacements are one of the most common orthopedic surgeries in the United States, with around 800,000 performed annually. You likely know someone who has undergone this procedure or may be considering it yourself. In this blog post, we’ll discuss why someone might choose to get a knee replacement, what the surgical process involves, and what recovery looks like, especially with the support of physical therapy.
The most common reason for a knee replacement is persistent pain that significantly interferes with daily activities. This pain often occurs alongside moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis, which can typically be seen on an X-ray. However, it’s important to remember that X-ray findings don’t always match up with pain levels, some people with severe arthritis may report only mild symptoms and may not benefit from surgery.
Before pursuing surgery, most individuals are encouraged to try conservative treatments first. These may include physical therapy, exercise, and oral or topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), all of which have strong evidence supporting their effectiveness. Other interventions like massage, corticosteroid injections, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, laser therapy, and acupuncture may provide some relief, but the evidence is less consistent1.
If you're still struggling with knee pain after trying these options, your orthopedic surgeon can help determine whether a knee replacement is the right next step. A physical therapist can also be a valuable partner at this stage, helping you build strength and mobility before surgery (a process called prehabilitation) to improve your outcomes afterward.
If you and your surgeon decide to move forward with surgery, there are different surgical options to consider. One major distinction is between a partial and total knee replacement. The knee is divided into compartments, and a partial replacement addresses just one area, while a total replacement involves resurfacing both sides. Partial replacements often allow for faster recovery, but some individuals eventually require a total knee replacement later on.
During the procedure:
Most patients begin physical therapy the same day or the day after surgery—either in the hospital or at home. Early goals include safe walking, swelling control, and regaining motion. Key tips during this stage include:
A home health physical therapist may visit to guide you through exercises and help with mobility in the early days.
As healing progresses, most people transition to outpatient physical therapy. Early outpatient goals include:
Recovery time varies from person to person, depending on individual health, activity level, and surgery type. Here’s a general guideline:
Knee replacements are designed to improve your ability to perform daily tasks—not necessarily to support high-impact sports. That said, many people return to enjoyable activities like:
More intense activities—such as running, basketball, or volleyball—can be more challenging. Some surgeons may advise caution with high-impact sports due to potential wear on the prosthesis, while others may be more flexible.
If you have specific activity goals, talk to your surgeon and physical therapist early so they can guide your recovery accordingly and create a personalized plan to help you return safely.
Undergoing a knee replacement is a major decision—but for those with severe knee pain, it can be life-changing. Conservative treatments like physical therapy and exercise should always be tried first, and when surgery is appropriate, physical therapy can play a critical role in your preparation and recovery.
If you're considering a knee replacement or are already on the road to recovery, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn how Maven can support you every step of the way.
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