Total Knee Replacement (TKR)
Total knee replacement (TKR), also known as total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical technique to replace a worn-out or injured knee joint with an artificial joint comprised of metal, plastic, or a combination of both materials. The operation is typically performed only when less invasive options, like medication and physiotherapy, have failed to reduce discomfort and enhance knee joint function.
What happens in Total knee replacement?
The injured knee joint components are removed during surgery, and the artificial joint components are placed into the remaining bone. The tibial component replaces the top of the shin bone, the patellar component replaces the underside of the kneecap, and the femoral component, which replaces the end of the thigh bone, make up the new knee joint.
Why does TKR recommend?
Those with severe knee arthritis, major knee joint deformity, or a knee injury that caused the joint to sustain extensive damage are often advised to undergo TKR. Pain relief, increased mobility, and the return of typical knee joint function are the main objectives of TKR.
Post-surgical symptoms of TKR:
- Pain and stiffness.
- Decreased mobility.
- Painful movement.
- Instability or a feeling that the knee joint is giving way
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg below the knee joint
Physiotherapy is an important component of the overall treatment plan for patients undergoing total knee replacement (TKR).
Here is a brief overview of the physiotherapy treatment before and after TKR:
Before Total Knee Replacement:
• Assessment: To come up with the most effective treatment strategy, the physiotherapist will evaluate the patient’s knee joint function, strength, and mobility.
• Prehabilitation exercises: Before to surgery, the physiotherapist will prescribe exercises to help the knee joint’s strength, flexibility, and range of motion. This may facilitate post-operative healing and enhance surgical results.
After Total Knee Replacement:
• Pain management: The physiotherapist will use exercises, modalities like ice or heat, and other methods to help the patient manage their pain.
• Early mobilization: After surgery, the physiotherapist will assist the patient in getting up and walking as quickly as possible. This can facilitate healing and aid in avoiding blood clots and other problems.
• Range of motion exercises: The physiotherapist will give exercises to assist increase the range of motion and flexibility in the knee joints. These exercises may stretch the knee joint.
• Strengthening exercises: The physiotherapist will give exercises to help strengthen the knee joints. Leg presses, squats, and lunges are a few examples of these exercises.
• Gait training: The physiotherapist will use aids like crutches or a walker to work with the patient. The aim is to improve the patient’s walking and balance.
• Home exercise program: The physiotherapist will provide exercises for the patient to perform at home. These exercises will aid in the patient’s rehabilitation and recovery.
physiotherapy is important to a patient’s effective rehabilitation and recovery following a complete knee replacement. To gain the best results, patients must carefully work with their physiotherapist and adhere to their treatment plan.
