Post-TKR Physiotherapy Protocol – Weekly Recovery Guide

Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is a life-changing surgery for people suffering from severe knee pain, arthritis, or joint damage. But surgery alone is not enough — physiotherapy plays a crucial role in ensuring proper healing, restoring movement, and getting you back to daily activities.

A structured weekly-based rehabilitation plan helps patients recover faster, improve knee function, and prevent complications.

Why Post-TKR Physiotherapy is Important

• Restores knee range of motion

• Reduces pain and swelling

• Strengthens muscles around the knee

• Improves walking and balance

• Prevents stiffness and scar tissue formation

Post-TKR Physiotherapy Protocol (Weekly Guide)

Week 1 – Immediate Post-Op Phase (Hospital & Home Transition)

Goals: Reduce swelling, manage pain, prevent stiffness, and start gentle movement.

Physiotherapy Focus:

• Ankle pumps to improve blood circulation

• Gentle knee bends (heel slides) in bed

• Isometric quadriceps contractions (tighten thigh muscles)

• Use of walker or crutches for safe walking

• Cryotherapy (ice packs) to control swelling

• Deep breathing exercises to prevent lung complications

Week 2 – Early Mobilization Phase

Goals: Increase knee bending, improve walking, and reduce pain.

Physiotherapy Focus:

• Gradually increase knee flexion to 70–90°

• Continue isometric exercises for quadriceps and hamstrings

• Straight leg raises (with therapist guidance)

• Walking with walker, focusing on correct gait

• Patellar mobilization (to prevent stiffness)

• Gentle stretching of calf and hamstring muscles

Week 3–4 – Strength & Mobility Phase

Goals: Improve range of motion, build muscle strength, and walk with more independence.

Physiotherapy Focus:

• Knee bending up to 100–110°

• Mini squats and step-ups (low height)

• Stationary cycling (with limited resistance)

• Balance training (parallel bars or wall support)

• Gradual transition from walker to walking stick

• Functional activities like getting in/out of a chair safely

Week 5–6 – Advanced Strengthening Phase

Goals: Enhance endurance, strength, and functional independence.

Physiotherapy Focus:

• Knee bending 115–120°

• Resistance band exercises for leg muscles

• Treadmill walking or outdoor walking

• Side leg raises and hip strengthening

• Climbing small stairs with proper technique

• Focus on balance and coordination exercises

Week 7–8 – Return to Normal Activities

Goals: Achieve full range of motion, restore daily activity level, and improve confidence.

Physiotherapy Focus:

• Advanced functional training (e.g., carrying light loads, bending to pick objects)

• Walking without assistive devices

• Low-impact aerobic exercises (cycling, swimming)

• Continue strengthening and stretching routines

• Sport-specific or work-specific training if needed

Important Tips for Post-TKR Recovery

• Always follow your surgeon’s and physiotherapist’s advice.

• Do exercises regularly — consistency is the key to recovery.

• Avoid high-impact activities until fully cleared by your doctor.

• Maintain a healthy diet for faster healing.

• Listen to your body — pain beyond mild discomfort may indicate overexertion.

Conclusion

A well-structured post-TKR physiotherapy protocol ensures a smooth recovery, reduces complications, and helps you get back to an active lifestyle. At Mannat Physio Care, we provide customized post-knee replacement rehab plans, guiding you through each stage — from the first day after surgery to full independence.

📞 Call us today to book your recovery session and walk pain-free again!

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