Physical Therapy for total knee replacement

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Mobile Rehab provides in-home, outpatient Physical Therapy for seniors.

Convenient

Personalized

Covered by insurance

Locally owned and operated in North Carolina since 2004

What is a total knee replacement?

Total knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of damaged or diseased parts of the knee joint and their replacement with artificial parts called prostheses.

During the surgery, the damaged cartilage and bone in the knee joint are removed, and the ends of the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) are trimmed to accommodate the prosthetic joint components. A plastic spacer is placed between the two metal components to create a smooth gliding surface, allowing the knee joint to move more smoothly and without pain.

The goal of a total knee replacement is to relieve pain and restore function in the knee joint. It is typically recommended for people who have severe knee damage caused by arthritis, injury, or other conditions that affect the knee joint. The procedure is performed under general or regional anesthesia and usually requires a hospital stay of a few days, followed by a period of physical therapy and rehabilitation to help the patient regain strength and mobility.

Source: OrthoInfo

Are there different types of total knee replacements?

There are different types of total knee replacements, which can vary in terms of the materials used, the design of the implant components, and the surgical techniques used to perform the procedure. Here are a few examples:

Fixed-bearing implants: These are the most common type of knee implant, where the plastic spacer is firmly attached to one of the metal components, creating a stable joint.
Mobile-bearing implants: In this type of implant, the plastic spacer can move slightly within the knee joint, which may provide better range of motion and durability.
Gender-specific implants: These are designed to fit the anatomical differences between men's and women's knees, such as differences in the shape and angle of the bones.
Unicompartmental knee replacements: In some cases, only one part of the knee joint is damaged, and a partial knee replacement, also known as a unicompartmental knee replacement, may be performed instead of a total knee replacement.
Custom-made knee implants: These are created specifically for a patient's unique anatomy, using 3D printing and other advanced manufacturing techniques.

The type of knee replacement recommended for a patient will depend on factors such as the extent of the knee damage, the patient's age and lifestyle, and the surgeon's preference and experience.

Source: Medline Plus

When should someone consider a knee replacement?

A knee replacement may be considered when other treatments, such as medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes, have not provided enough relief from knee pain and disability caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or injury.

The decision to undergo knee replacement surgery should be made in consultation with an orthopedic surgeon and based on a thorough evaluation of the patient's condition, medical history, and lifestyle. Some signs that may indicate the need for knee replacement surgery include:

Severe pain in the knee that limits everyday activities and is not relieved by medications or other treatments.
Persistent swelling and stiffness in the knee joint that makes it difficult to bend or straighten the leg.
Chronic instability or weakness in the knee that makes it difficult to walk or stand.
Deformity or malalignment of the knee joint.
Significant damage to the knee joint as seen on X-rays or other imaging tests.

It's important to note that knee replacement surgery is typically considered a last resort after other treatments have failed, and that the decision to undergo surgery should be carefully considered in light of the risks and benefits involved. Your doctor can help you determine if knee replacement surgery is right for you.

Source: University of Washington

How can physical therapy help before or after a knee replacement?

Physical therapy can be very helpful both before and after knee replacement surgery. Here are some ways that physical therapy can benefit patients:

Before knee replacement surgery:

Strengthening exercises: Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint, which can help to improve mobility and reduce pain.
Range of motion exercises: Physical therapy can also help to improve the range of motion in the knee joint, which can be helpful for activities such as walking and climbing stairs.
Education: Physical therapists can provide patients with information about what to expect before and after surgery, as well as tips for managing pain and swelling.

After knee replacement surgery:

Rehabilitation exercises: After surgery, physical therapy can help to improve strength, range of motion, and overall function in the knee joint.
Pain management: Physical therapists can provide techniques to manage pain and swelling, including ice therapy, compression, and elevation.
Gait training: Physical therapy can help patients to learn how to walk properly with their new joint, and help them transition from using a walker or crutches to walking without assistance.
Home exercise program: Physical therapists can provide patients with exercises to perform at home, which can help to improve their recovery and prevent future knee problems.

Overall, physical therapy is an important part of the rehabilitation process after knee replacement surgery. It can help patients to regain mobility, improve function, and reduce pain and swelling.

Source: National Library of Medicine

Frequently asked questions

Meet our therapists

Click below to learn more about all of our therapists in your area

Patients trust Mobile Rehab

The physical therapist came to our house and carefully reviewed our case. He designed therapies and strategies that have worked well for us. For example, my husband could not get off the floor by himself and I could not lift him when he fell. Together we learned techniques to cope with this situation in our home. Joshua designed fun and effective exercises to improve strength and flexibility. My husband can now get in and out of chairs and cars without help and walks more easily. Since we used equipment in and around the home, my husband can remember and apply what he has learned. Mobile Rehab accepted our insurance and worked out approval to provide services. We did not need a referral from our doctor. My husband and I highly recommend Mobile Rehab if you or a loved one needs physical therapy.Jerry from Pittsboro

I wanted to tell you how much better I think Mom is since starting your PT. She has been less off balance, quicker to equilibrate to standing, and has had more stamina. I also think she is less depressed and feels more accomplished. Josh has been prompt and polite, as well as engaging in conversation to make Mom feel at ease. Thank you!Karen Pool - Google Review

In my many years of experience with PT for a variety of injuries, I have never worked with a therapist as knowledgeable, energetic, patient, and committed to my recovery and health as Celeste. She is interested in the cause of the problem and finding solutions, rather than only dealing with superficial symptoms. The manual work she does always leaves me feeling better and the exercises/stretches she has taught me target exactly where the problems lie. I can tell that I’m noticeably stronger and more flexible because of them. Anyone who gets to work with Celeste is lucky indeed! Judy R - 72 years young 😉

Both my husband and I are working with Amy, a PT for Mobile Rehab. She has been helping me after knee replacement surgery, and is working with my husband with balance, strengthening and walking. She is a gem! She is enthusiastic, engaging, and always positive. I would gladly recommend Amy and Mobile Rehab to anyone who needs physical therapy!Mona Harrison - Google Review

Oh my goodness, I cannot say enough good things about my therapist, Jennifer. After having a complete shoulder replacement and being discharged by my doctor, he recommended that I could still need therapy to help get me back to “normal”. My friend in Asheville recommended Jennifer to me. I set up an appointment and Jen showed up, right on time, at my apartment with her folding table in tow. She was so knowledgeable about how my shoulder worked, the muscles, tendons and the rotator cuff. After working on the painful spots I complained about, she set up a plan to work out the stiffness and soreness. Now, after 2 visits per week for four weeks, I feel like a new woman. At her last visit, she gave me the coping skills I needed to keep my shoulder in good shape. I am so impressed with her work that I recommend her highly as my most favored therapist.Jane Cumby - Google Review

Deb's professional manner is greatly appreciated as she continues to help me maintain my mobility with a variety of exercises and movements. Her positive attitude during my sessions gives me a sense of well-being.Nancy C. - Google Review

Erin Rankin and Cheryl Reid are skilled physical therapists. As a Parkinson's patient, I have benefited greatly from their expertise. I feel that by keeping my muscles stretched, I have contributed to my current state of mobility. If they are going to be a few minutes late, they are thoughtful and considerate by sending a text to me. When scheduling appointments, efforts are made to accommodate my specific timing needs. Due to the longevity of our relationships, levels of trust have been built. Their pleasant personalities add to the care they give. I look forward to seeing them each week. Nancy C - Google Review

The therapist from Mobile Rehab has been fantastic and very helpful to me. She clearly is the best PT I have ever had.Laureen F of Chapel Hill

Each time a PT moves on we think no one could be as good and them amazingly they seem to be even better. Have used for years and always with great satisfactionSue Clark - Google Review

I have been so impressed with Mobile Rehab. I've been working with Lacey K. DPT. post-op for a knee replacement. She is extremely professional, answers all of my questions and it seems not to bother her if I ask the same question again! She works me hard and that's what I need. She'll tell me either I'm doing it right or will correct me in a very calm and pleasant manner. Lacey explains everything I'm doing and why. I can't say enough good things about Mobile Rehab especially Lacey!Mary Beth Bryman - Google Review

Use your insurance or pay privately

No prescription is needed to start. Mobile Rehab is covered by insurance and provides in-home physical therapy.

Medicare

$0 per visit

Many Medicare plans with a supplement policy will cover all of our fees.

Commercial Insurance

Same as a clinic

Pay the same copay as if you went to a clinic for therapy. We accept many major insurances and will verify your benefits before starting.

Private Pay

$120

Easy payment options available.

HOW TO GET STARTED

Contact Us by Phone, Email, or Fax
We’ll help you check your insurance benefits. You do not need to be homebound and you should not be currently receiving any other physical therapy or skilled nursing services in the home.
Schedule an Evaluation
We will match you with a therapist and have them contact you to plan a date, time and location that works best for you.
It’s That Easy!
We make it simple to get the care you need… and exceed your expectations while doing so.

SERVICES

Fall Prevention

We provide research-based, individualized fall prevention interventions that have been shown to greatly reduce your risk of falling and injuries, including the OTAGO fall prevention program.

Click here to
learn more about OTAGO

General Rehab

Avoid driving to a clinic and get the individualized care you deserve. We work with many conditions ranging from post-stroke, Parkinson’s, vertigo to rotator cuff dysfunction and much more. Contact us for details.

After Home Health

We can improve care continuity by providing in home therapy even after you have been discharged by a Home Health agency. Avoid the hassle of driving and continue to make progress towards your goals.

Strength and Conditioning

We can help you improve your strength, mobility, range of motion, or any other functional limitations that impair your daily activity.

Pain Relief

We develop individualized care plans to help manage your aches and pains through exercise and hands-on techniques.