Knee Replacement - Overview, Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation
Overview
The knee joint is frequently used for daily duties and activities, therefore maintaining a healthy knee joint is vital. Knee replacement is a type of surgery for individuals suffering from severe knee pain and have restriction in range of movement. Knee replacements are also know as knee arthroplasty and can be partial or total knee replacement. Knee replacements are a common surgical procedure aimed to reduce discomfort and increase knee movement allowing a better quality of life for the client by resurfacing the damaged areas of the knee joint. This type of surgery may be considered with individuals with arthritis or severe knee injury. Three common types of arthritis include: Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Traumatic Arthritis.
Recovering From Knee Replacement Surgery
Clients are usually discharged from hospital within a few days following surgery considering the outcome of the operation. Following hospital discharge Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation is recommended to look after your knee and progress the recovery of the joint. Walking aids might be advised during the acute stage of recovery to protect the knee joint. At this early stage of recovery hands on treatment as well as gentle mobility and strengthening exercises can be started aiming to strengthen the joint as a whole and restore optimal range of movement. Below are a selection of exercises which are usually prescribed to increase joint mobility and strengthen the knee joint.