Physical therapy helps you recover after total knee replacement surgery (TKR). It can help you become stronger so you can take part in daily activities. You will start physical therapy as soon as possible after your surgery. Before you leave the hospital, you will be working with a physical therapist. They will teach you how to walk with assistive devices, like crutches, and guide you on increasing your range of motion and strength.
It is important that you start moving right away. Being in bed for too long after your surgery can cause health problems. These may include blood clots, breathing problems, and weak muscles.
After you leave the hospital, you will continue to work with a physical therapist to become stronger. Most of your therapy will consist of stretching different leg muscles to increase your range of motion and strengthen your muscles. By doing this, you increase the movement of blood throughout your body. Blood movement helps prevent blood clots. For this reason, it is very important that you work with your physical therapist.
To start improving, you must get moving!
