When should I start physiotherapy after knee replacement?

Ideally Day 1 post-op - in-hospital physiotherapy begins immediately. After discharge (typically Day 3-5), continue with home visits or clinic sessions within 48 hours. The first 2 weeks are critical for ROM - delay risks permanent stiffness.

How long will I need a walker or stick after TKR?

Most patients progress from walker to single stick by week 2-4, and to independent walking by week 4-8. This varies with pre-op fitness, age, and adherence to exercise. Crutch weaning requires good quadriceps control and no significant limp - we don't rush this.

Will I be able to kneel after knee replacement?

Most patients can kneel after TKR, though sensation may feel different due to the anterior incision numbness. Gradual kneeling desensitisation starts once ROM and strength milestones are met (usually month 3+). We use padded surfaces and graded exposure.

Specialised Physiotherapy Service

Total Knee Replacement rehab: from surgery to stairs

Structured post-TKR rehabilitation that progresses from pain and swelling management through range-of-motion restoration to independent, confident walking - aligned with your surgeon's protocol.

A successful knee replacement is 50% surgery and 50% rehabilitation. The implant provides the hardware; physiotherapy builds the software - restoring flexion and extension range, quadriceps activation, proper gait pattern, and stair negotiation. Without guided rehab, stiffness, persistent limp, and quadriceps avoidance patterns can limit the outcome of even a technically perfect surgery. Our TKR program works in close coordination with your orthopaedic surgeon's protocol and milestones.

Our treatment approach

Early post-operative phase (Day 1-Week 2)

Pain and swelling management (cryotherapy, elevation, compression), active ankle pumps for DVT prophylaxis, quadriceps re-activation (isometrics, straight leg raise progression), active-assisted knee flexion and extension to achieve early ROM targets, and safe walker/crutch gait training on flat ground.

ROM & strength building (Week 2-6)

Targeted flexion gains (goal: 90°+ by week 2-3, 110°+ by week 6), terminal extension work (the last 10° of active extension is the hardest to regain and the most critical for normal gait), progressive closed-chain strengthening, patellar mobility, and scar tissue mobilisation.

Gait retraining & functional independence (Week 6-12)

Weaning from assistive devices (stick → independent), stair negotiation (reciprocal pattern), static and dynamic balance training, return to community walking (uneven surfaces, curbs, crowds), and initiation of low-impact conditioning (cycling, swimming clearance).

Advanced function & maintenance (Month 3+)

Kneeling tolerance training, squat-to-lift mechanics for daily tasks, recreational activity guidance (golf, doubles tennis, dancing), and a long-term home maintenance program for strength and ROM.

What you can expect

Knee flexion ≥110° and full extension within 8-12 weeks

Pain-free, limp-free independent walking on varied surfaces

Confident stair negotiation using reciprocal pattern

Return to recreational walking, cycling, and swimming

Understanding of lifelong knee care for implant longevity

Frequently asked questions

Ready to start your recovery?

Our total knee replacement rehab program is evidence-based, individually tailored, and focused on measurable outcomes. Book your initial consultation today.

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Get in Touch

Ready to begin your recovery?

Reach out to schedule your initial consultation. We'll discuss your concerns, assess your needs, and outline a clear path forward.

Phone

+91 77385 56911

adaptrehabilitation@gmail.com

Location

Galleria Shopping Mall, Central Ave, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400076

Hours

Mon - Sat: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM