Undergoing knee surgery is a significant step toward recovery and improved function, but the journey doesn’t end with the operation itself. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation process, helping patients regain strength, mobility, and confidence. In this blog post, we’ll explore what you can expect from physical therapy following knee surgery, including the initial evaluation, recovery timelines, and strategies for returning to sports. With insights from expert physical therapist Morgan Kouris, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of the path to a successful recovery and how to navigate the challenges along the way.
What should I expect when I begin physical therapy?
The initial evaluation following your knee will focus on light passive range of motion, pain management education, and inspecting the incisions to ensure proper healing. The beginning stages of therapy will focus on regaining full range of motion within the surgical protocol, and neuromuscular reeducation for lower extremity muscle function. The quadricep muscles tend to “shut down” following a knee surgery, and reactivation of the muscles is essential to beginning gait training and lower extremity strengthening.
How long will it be back to prior level of function?
The recovery time for knee surgery can vary greatly depending on the type of surgery performed, the individual’s overall health, and how well they follow their rehabilitation program. Generally, for minor arthroscopic procedures, recovery might take a few weeks to a couple of months. More complex surgeries, like ACL reconstruction or total knee replacement, can require several months of recovery and rehabilitation before returning to normal activities. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions and work closely with a physical therapist to ensure a safe and successful recovery.
What does return to sport look like following knee surgery?
As strength and mobility improve, you’ll begin more dynamic exercises and sport-specific drills. Your physical therapist and surgeon will monitor your progress closely, gradually increasing the intensity of your workouts. The timing for returning to sports varies widely among individuals and is ultimately determined by your surgeon and physical therapist. Typically, athletes can start light sport-specific training around 6-9 months post-surgery. Full return to competitive play may take closer to 9-12 months, or even longer for some athletes.
Important things to consider over the course of physical therapy:
Healing is not linear, and everybody is different. It is normal in the progression of therapy for swelling of the lower extremity to fluctuate as activities are reintroduced. Pain, range of motion, and endurance will also fluctuate within the first few weeks of therapy. The main goal of therapy is to have an overall positive trend in function and strength. Please talk to your therapist about any concerns that you may have and trust the process!
Morgan Kouris
PT, DPT
Orthopedic Therapist
