Réhabital
Total Knee Replacement Rehabilitation
The first three months after a knee replacement largely determine the final result. A supervised programme restores range, strength and a natural walking pattern without compensating through the hip or back.
Book an AppointmentUnderstanding This Condition
Total knee replacement resurfaces joint surfaces worn out by advanced arthritis. Surgery resolves joint pain, but it does not restore quadriceps strength, which is strongly inhibited afterwards, nor the flexibility of the surrounding tissue. The clinical priority for the first six weeks is clear: achieve full extension and a functional flexion of at least 110 degrees while controlling swelling.
Common Symptoms
Common Causes
Quadriceps inhibition
Pain and swelling reflexively shut down muscle activation after surgery.
Fibrosis and adhesions
Scar tissue limits kneecap glide and flexion when mobilisation is delayed.
Post-operative swelling
A swollen knee mechanically loses both range and strength.
Pre-existing compensations
Years of arthritis altered gait; the hip and ankle need retraining too.
Our Treatment Approach
The programme follows clear phases. Weeks 0 to 2: swelling control, quadriceps activation, full passive extension, walking with an aid. Weeks 2 to 6: flexion gains, kneecap and scar mobilisation, closed chain strengthening, progressive weaning off the cane. Weeks 6 to 12: strength, stair climbing and descent, single leg balance, walking endurance. Beyond that: return to activity, cycling, swimming and hiking. Osteopathy complements this by releasing the hip, ankle and pelvis, often locked by years of limping, which reduces the low back pain that is common after surgery.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Sessions of 45 to 60 minutes, twice weekly at first, with a daily home programme. Functional recovery continues for up to a year.
At-Home Self-Care Tips
- Perform extension exercises several times a day.
- Ice after sessions and activity.
- Elevate the leg to control swelling.
- Walk often for short distances rather than rarely for long ones.
- Massage the scar once fully closed.
Prognosis & Recovery Timeline
Most patients walk without an aid between four and eight weeks and reach comfortable function between three and six months. Improvement continues for up to twelve months.
When to See Us at Réhabital
Start physiotherapy within days of hospital discharge. Seek prompt care for redness, heat, fever, or a painful swollen calf.
Why Réhabital Clinic
We combine a rigorous post-operative protocol with hands-on work on the hip, ankle and pelvis so compensations do not persist.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Address
D4-5800 Cavendish Blvd
Côte Saint-Luc, QC H4W 2T5
Phone
(438) 842-3550Hours
Mon–Fri: 10AM–8PM
Sun: 10AM–4PM
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