Knee Rehabilitation after Surgery

It Starts in Pre-Rehab

Whether it’s due to an injury, degenerative condition, or overuse, the decision to undergo knee surgery is never easy. It’s important to understand that the road to full recovery doesn’t end with the surgery—it begins in the rehabilitation room. For some that know about their knee surgery beforehand, the journey to recovery may start with strengthening and conditioning before surgery, also known as pre-hab.

Most Common Knee Surgeries

• Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
  • Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat knee problems. Small incisions are made, and a camera (arthroscope) is inserted into the joint to view and sometimes repair damage. Commonly used to remove damaged cartilage or repair torn ligaments.
• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction
  • The ACL is a key ligament in the knee that often tears during sports or sudden movements. ACL reconstruction involves using a tendon from another part of the patient’s body or from a donor to replace the damaged ligament. It requires extensive rehabilitation afterward, but most athletes return to their activities after healing.
• Meniscectomy (Meniscus Surgery)
  • The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion in the knee. A meniscectomy is the removal of damaged or torn portions of the meniscus. In some cases, a meniscus repair may be done instead, but removal is often necessary when the damage is too severe for a repair.
• Total Knee Replacement (TKR)
  • Total knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is typically reserved for patients with severe arthritis or joint degeneration. In this procedure, the damaged portions of the knee joint (typically the cartilage) are replaced with metal and plastic components, offering pain relief and improved mobility.

Post-Op Care

Post-op or in the days or weeks following knee surgery, rehabilitation plays a crucial role in restoring strength, flexibility, and function. Physical therapy isn’t just about healing the knee—it’s about regaining the ability to move freely, without pain, and return to daily activities. It’s also about mental resilience, as patients must push through discomfort and trust the process.

We Customize Care

At Body Harmony Physical Therapy, each recovery plan is customized. Therapists start with gentle movements and gradually increase intensity as strength and mobility improve. This progressive approach ensures the knee doesn’t just heal; it heals optimally. Education also plays a key role—patients are taught how to protect their knee and prevent future injury, with lifestyle adjustments and exercises tailored to their needs.

Common Interventions in Physical Therapy

• Manual Therapy
  • Scar Tissue management
  • Soft tissue mobilization
  • Joint mobilization
  • Sensory Re-integration
  • Nerve mobilization
• Therapeutic Exercise
  • Strength training
  • Flexibility
  • Endurance training
• Neuromuscular Re-education
  • Coordination
  • Balance
• Posture
• Modalities
  • Electrical Stimulation

While the process can be time-consuming and occasionally frustrating, the long-term benefits are profound. With the right combination of surgery, rehabilitation, and patient dedication, most individuals can return to the activities they love, whether that’s hiking, sports, or simply walking without pain. The goal is not just recovery, but a renewed sense of vitality and movement.