Improve Knee Bending & Knee Stiffness After Total Knee Replacement

Please visit my website www.SUCCEEDCOURSES.com to learn more detailed information about knee replacements. I also offer phone consultations if you need specialized help for your specific case.
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Please note this video should not be substituted for medical advice. Always consult your doctor.

[@dougkahler7152]

I’d listen to this Doctor! I did everything she’s telling you guys. I did my pre surgery pt and then stretched it as much as I could stand and then a little more as soon as I got back to my room. I straightened my knee 10 times per hr for at least 10 seconds. Then threw a towel around my ankle and bent my knee as much as I could stand 10 times for 10 seconds. By the next morning my PT therapist couldn’t believe my range of motion I had in one day. I blew away all my doctors and therapists throughout my recovery. In two month time I was at zero and 134 degrees. It does take 6 months to start getting over the swelling and I agree it’s a year to heal completely. But I knew from the moment I was out of surgery I had a knee again. Best Decision ever ! So glad I did it.

[@patricialarsen6460]

Hi Doc. Thank you for you insight. I’m almost 7 weeks post op. Returned to teaching my dance fitness classes this week. Tight band “feeling “ is impactful but I understand it to be cause and effect regarding how much I choose to do in my home PT practice. While it’s true I can increase swelling if I engage in too much I also realize my other muscles are clearly benefiting. So I will continue balancing my fitness both sides of my body. It’s also helped me loose additional weight since surgery. So once I remembered to work both sides of my body I could deal better with the inconvenience of my surgical side needing time to heal. It’s all good.

[@user-se1bh3qd8q]

Thank you Dr. Smith for posting this video. I had a full right knee replacement two and a half weeks ago and leading up to this procedure I was a very active person. I'm thinking of adding a work out on a stationary bike to my normal pt. My range of motion has really increased over the past few days so I'm incredibly inspired to get moving. And yes, if I feel anything weird I will stop immediately. I'll try the biking tomorrow or the day after. I'll post here how things felt afterward. Have a pleasant evening. Sharky

[@brentkappler8100]

Thank you for this information. I’m 17 days post surgery and this video was very helpful. I need to do better at elevating. Thanks, again for this video and advice!

[@MericaWakeUp]

You’re always so inspirational!! Thank you for keeping me mentally on track.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Thank you so much!

[@patriciadurmo8552]

im almost 7 mos post op and still have stiffness across my left knee. i have bend and am still walking with cane. I am yo and have arthritis throughout my back. the stiffness in the knee comes and goes. I stopped pt at the end of december, and am doing the exercises and icing as much as i can. im a side sleeper and keep a pillow between my legs. this video has helpful information and i will put it to good use. i can walk up and down my 15 stairs to my apartment almost like normal. that is an improvement for me. when i go out walking, it takes me at least a full block to get the knee going. I live in nyc and the weather does make it diffucult for me. when it rains, i know it at least 2 days before it comes, lol.

[@specialized29er86]

Water physio and standing leg curls made all the difference for my bilateral replacements.

[@jimpuff8409]

I have had two partial knee replacements, three years ago, and I still feel like a tight rubber band around my knees and I’ve been doing exercises with no luck. It’s so uncomfortable day after day. I would love one day of feeling good.

[@lizlemon9632]

Very informative, great info. Thx.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jamesschulz5518]

Im going on three week s post knee surgery this is great info that u provide ! Thank you i have my two dogs and cat helping me lol

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Glad to help! And yes our fur babies are the best when we aren’t well. They know.

[@freddiewilkins3559]

Thank you so much for all the helpful information

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jeanhuelsman1766]

I love your exercise videos. Im having pain in the ankle and toes. Trying tape. Maybe the toe lifts are straining those areas. Movement really helps with pain.

[@johnbaldasarre4781]

Very helpful i wish i saw your videos before im at 8 weeks and healing well. Im joing your FB ground i have a few issues but over very happy for 8 weeks

[@tonyguerra5264]

I will start icing it thanks for the information

[@AmenCornerRider]

The Facebook group is so helpful. I am 5 days PO. My home PT told me to only ice 3 times a day as it would make it stiff if I iced it more.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

So glad you are in the group. And swelling, weakness and brain-muscle interruption are the source of the stiffness - not the icing. Icing is very helpful in controlling swelling.

[@AmenCornerRider]

@@dr.samanthasmith Thank you 🙏🏼 As a former athlete, I am a big believer in icing.

[@marytesta3003]

Now, 9 weeks, and I have more discomfort than at 6 weeks. The stiffness is intense at night. What a change at 12 weeks🙅‍♀️ I get some stiffness in the night but a good stretch, and I fall back to sleep.

[@johnbaldasarre4781]

I'm at 8 weeks same issues at night

[@marytesta3003]

@@johnbaldasarre4781 It really got better and better as weeks went on. Keep moving!

[@clifftucker8721]

For me, after my TKR, about two weeks in, I hit the exercise bike, starting with the seat up high with and a little pedal resistance, and as you go lowering the seat more and giving more resistance. This helped the knee range of motion, building muscles and aiding the healing of soft tissue and skin elasticity giving me confidence. I was feeling good enough after 8 weeks and got into my normal daily routine walking and returning back to work, sure a bit sore but to me it was important to get my muscles back to normality after compensating for the bad knee by leaning more to one side most times for several years, after 12 weeks and since, my knee feels perfect. So at 56 in very happy, best thing I did was have the knee replacement. Life is short, If you need one, get your medical insurance in order and don't delay just go for it. Surgical steel is the way to go, bone is passe!

[@chrismarshall7447]

Hi, that’s interesting, I had a total right knee 9 days ago, it’s so brutal, the pain was bad last night up at 2am taking strong meds. I have a Cross trainer in the spare bedroom, do you think this is a good exercise at my stage. I am a 62 male from UK. Thanks

[@clifftucker8721]

I used Oxi-Codine pain medication regularly for about 4 weeks, mainly to help me sleep at night (a pill every 4 hours) so it sounds like your on course. I would try and do some exercise incorporating the knee as soon as you can (after the cooling pack is removed) and as much as you can take and gently enough as not split any stitches. Any movement is good movement

[@chrismarshall7447]

Hi, and thanks for your reply, what strength Oxycodone are you taking? I am on 5 mg . The first week they would last about 4/5 hours, but this week they wear off after 2/3 hours, I just need a good nights sleep.

[@clifftucker8721]

@@chrismarshall7447 to be honest, I cant remember. if the pain is still too much, then see your doc or knee guy and get a prescription for a more industrial strength doseage or another type.

[@sarahpengelly8439]

Interesting! I had a bilateral TKR here in the Netherlands over a decade ago. They are really tough here! After 48 hours of recovery the physiotherapist comes in & helps bend each knee right through to 90 degrees. I remember feeling the blood drain from my face. It's a bit traumatic so soon after but getting that new joint tracking right then is crucial. I saw two other people come in after weeks because they didn't have the minimum 90°R0M. At this point it becomes really difficult....

[@jefffishback6417]

All good information and I’ve tried this with PT and I’ve added PT at home after talking with my therapist. After ten years I had revision surgery and it’s was a disaster. It’s been two years of exercising and I’m at about 75 deg. It appears that my problem is two fold. One being some compartmented fluid behind my knee greatly restricting flexion, it does not compress and second my doctor simply says that I develop lots of scar tissue. No one has any idea what is occurring with the compartmented fluid and the doctor should have known about the scar tissue after the replacement ten years ago. It’s taken two years but I can now jump over a line painted on the ground. Can’t ride a bike with my grandkid, takes 110 deg. So all is not rosy.

[@ninawade3055]

Thank you for the advice and information 😊

[@dr.samanthasmith]

You are so welcome!

[@cydewitt46]

I enjoy your videos. I'm 12 weeks post op and I'm back teaching my cycle classes too! I'm just experiencing tightness under the incision occasionally and I'm noticing the rubber band feeling is going away. Anyone watching the videos please take the advice because that's what help me get this far. I already had my other knee replaced June 2021 and it's doing great except going down the stairs not so great but I'm getting there

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Awesome!! Tightness under the incision sounds like you could use some scar mobilizations. I know there’s some videos on KZbin if you search it.

[@cydewitt46]

@@dr.samanthasmith thank you very much for replying. I'll take a look because I'm massaging it but maybe need some more pointers.

[@Peter-rs6vz]

​@Dr. Samantha Smith Hi Dr,Samantha,just update on TRKR,i was discharged from physio last week as bend was 100 and knee was 90% straight now,so ive now reached 108Rom,but back of knee very stiff in the morning any ideas to help,thank you for all your help through this,Peter Uk 🇬🇧.

[@Peter-rs6vz]

Physio got me too do a full turn on a spin bike in the gym 6weeks PO my Rom is between 110-115 as it slips back afew over night so then its bike work,squarts against the wall and heal slids my leg is nearly straight iam 3% out so getting there,its little exercises everyday or when i feel the knee is getting stiff.

[@cydewitt46]

@Alien On A Bike hi. Don't think you weren't good at it. Give it another try if you can. I started full Rotations during PT which was about 4 weeks post-op. It was something else because this knee healed differently than the other one. Strong mindset is the key because now 4 months later I'm doing almost everything that I was doing as far as teaching cycle. As far as walking I was having that band feeling which was annoying but I just had to make myself keep at it. There is still some tightness in the mornings especially but you have to do your PT exercises first thing. I hope this helps along with Dr. Sam's videos

[@travisroy9259]

Your explaining is better than anybody showing anything. 2 weeks in and cant bend my knee at all hardly. Thanks for info

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Wow thanks for the compliment! Happy to help!

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Please join the Facebook group if you haven’t already facebook.com/groups/3278770492360139/?ref=share

[@pamellacarroll1989]

When I finish with my physical therapy sessions, I am really tight. My therapist has me do 15 repetitions of my different leg lifts. At home, I do 10. My knee does much better at 10 repetition.

[@donnachardeen9362]

Not sure if you're still monitoring this post, but this is great information. I am 5 months PO for knee #1. My flexion and extension are very good. I have been cleared for knee #2, which is scheduled for two months from now. My knee is still stiff even though it's not obvious anymore by the way I walk, use the stairs etc. When you talk about swelling, is that internal swelling rather than external? I never had too much external swelling but since it's still stiff I want to clarify that it is internal swelling and that will resolve at or after 6 months or so (I know everyone is different). Thank you so much for sharing your information.

[@alysononeill5173]

Thanks very interesting

[@Misshissproductions]

I'm at 5 weeks post op today .... 95 degrees but I still can't walk without a walker and it is so depressing for me. Doing home PT and outpatient 3 x a week.... praying it gets better soon. Documenting it all on my channel too.

[@amyr3285]

What kind of stretching do you recommend for the stiff knee? I had a total knee replacement done 24 days ago, and I made the mistake of stopping the icing after a week and half. The knee was swollen and my physical therapist saw that it was more swollen than previously, and I could only bend it to 61 degrees. Then after I got to icing and taking Ibuprofen again, I was more able to follow the exercises at home. I got to 76 degrees on the 3rd visit in bending and am trying for more. I see most patients here are past the 80 degree marks nd this worries me a=about my case.... I am trying to follow your plan here before I see my doctor next week. But I'd like to see what the stretching exercises are. Thanks!

[@minijms1]

Hello, I've had both knees done and both where partial replacements, my right was done first and yes it was painful in the beginning but on the road to recovery now, my left was done 4 months later, have to say my progress was slow and painful at first, lots of swelling that lasted longer which prevented me from exercising, then came the tightness, again very debilitating, now I have pain in front of the knee, my physio tells me this is a tendon issue although painful he advises me it will pass in time. As you say, this procedure should not be taken lightly the recovery process requires time, not always explained by surgeons before surgery.

[@michaelocarroll417]

Thank you Dr Smith, I have my right knee total replacement op due in 10 days time, as. 76 year old active person who swims and is a fitness fanatic your video has given me a great invite into after surgery do’s and dont’s. Thank you l will update readers on my progression and after surgery care a week following my op. Thank you.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Would love to hear how you do!! If you need help, check out my Post Surgery Course www.succeedcourses.com/post-surgery-course

[@michaelocarroll417]

@@dr.samanthasmith Thank you so much, l certainly will Dr Samantha, all the best from New Zealand.

[@pursedelighted8313]

I just had mine on nov.13 2023.it is ruff.take care

[@michaelocarroll417]

Start my eighth week following surgery tomorrow, so pleased with my progress l have about 130 degrees bend on my knee, walking 16,000 steps most days and swimming every other day, only issue is sleep mainly due not to pain mainly aches behind the knee however, daytime no issues walking without any pain at all. Best tools l found that helped was an Exercycle, and a plastic folder the size of an A4 paper, stand on the plastic folder and slide my foot forward then back gradually increasing my range of movement. So happy l had the operation well worth the first week of pain after the operation. Thank you Dr Smith.

[@michaelocarroll417]

Lost count of my weeks as l saw the surgeon Simon McLean yesterday 8 weeks post surgery, he has discharged me from hospital care as l am 90% fully recovered just aches at night with muscle behind the knee. I have a great ROM and covering 16,000 plus steps a day. Now Able to fly guess all the hard work has paid off for me with swimming, walking and work on an Exercycle.

[@pombester651]

Thank you for accepting me to your wonderful group. I had a knee replacement just over a week ago. We have all tested positive for covid so I have no idea what exercises I should be doing. Please could you advice me. Thank you

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Oh no! I’m so sorry!! Are they allowing virtual PT for you? I hope they would. It’s very important for you to keep the knee straight and also practice bending the knee. I have a video on my KZbin titled “week 1 exercises” please check it out. If you need more help I’d recommend my course www.succeedcourses.com/post-surgery-course

[@delailalmutlak6218]

Thanks doctor for your information.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Always welcome

[@suluprajapati7082]

Thank you dear

[@coringtonbaldwin7629]

Great video 📹...When I was first evaluated by outpatient...my knee bend was 112 degrees..after a couple of months...I reached 127 degrees..( Of course I couldn't have reached 127 degrees on my own...my Therapist pushed my Pain Tolerance/Bend to the limit = Good... The next 2 months I reached 132 degrees which is great but as I developed my Quad Muscles I went back to 127 degrees which is perfectly fine with me.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Oh wow! You did a great job! And yes those muscles can definitely tighten up

[@susansalvaterra7803]

I am thinking of getting a knee replacement. I need to find a great surgeon. And what do you look for so your confident with a knee replacement suregon..please give me advise. What the questions to ask also.

[@coringtonbaldwin7629]

2 Factors: What Doctor your insurance allows you to choose from and carefully read the reviews of the particular Surgeon/Doctor you select

[@robertkreamer7522]

Yes I had both done one is unipolar the other total . The uni was much harder but that was 2008 and then total in 2018 and I think my right knee is much less stiff if I stand in one spot like at a cocktail party but my left , the uni , locks up so stiff I can barely walk if I stand still for 15 minutes . Tech changes in 10 years But you are Right. Once around the sun is the recovery period .

[@johnconklin9138]

Uni Here ! :) great info as you have both! iI I sit for 10-15 min its a slow start. I also have a lot of discomfort at the implant area when doing full range. stretches. I am 6 weeks PO and now at 95. I was told the Uni would be quicker and I researched it to death ! looked pretty straight forward however from My experience and my good friends who have all had TKR they were much quicker to recover some on the court in 5 weeks other playing tournament in 6 weeks! Me? well just praying I get back there in 3-6 months with out a revision. trying to give it time cant rush the Physio and tissue needs to heal so fingers crossed !

[@louisdebellefeuille4531]

I am starting my 4th month and have had chronic (at times acute) pain. My surgeon did blood work and x-ray and said there is nothing wrong. He is perplexed.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Unfortunately I hear this story often. When I hear this, I always recommend to my patients to listen to their knee. Rest a little bit more with ice and elevation. I’m sure you have a busy life and your knee just isn’t ready to be running around yet.

[@deanfrazier7553]

I'm about 3 weeks post TKR of my left knee. ROM is 125 degrees, so I'm really happy. Part of my recovery protocol has been the NICE1 cold/compression system. You can run the machine multiple times throughout the day and night, with programmable temperature, compression levels, and on/off cycles. I'm a big fan of this system, and believe it was crucial to getting the swelling down in my new knee.

[@carolynduvall-eb6lv]

What type of machine did you use that offered programmable features.?

[@tracydouziech1319]

I had my TKR done jan 29 2024 and my knee still feels stiff . Been doing my exercises from physio. Been icing it 3x a day . Elevate my knee every night and after my exercises. My question is im scared ill never b the same. I just wish this heavyness goes away. Im going to follow what you say in ur video . Doctor Samantha Smith. Also been using my walker and cane lots

[@tonyguerra5264]

Thanks I'm just getting over having it done on June 8th and so it's been a little over two months on them having problem with is the back of my hamstring and on the side of my calf I got like a band that

[@sherz3725]

Had a partial knee replacement a year ago, still stiff and pain. Found out I now need a hip replacement, hoping that will help my knee. Am really looking forward to having my life back, the pain is excruciating. Not even sure I needed the partial knee replacement.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Get a second opinion for the knee!

[@jacksmail7725]

Hi Doc...Into Day 5 , post surgery. TG for your videos.. Wife is 76, her knee is only 8 days old and relearning the ropes! Thank you Dr. Sam. jP

[@docsays]

Ya i learned the hard way about over doing it. I hit 105 flex around 6 wks, but seemed to be stuck there.then at 10 wks My PT suggested I increase intensity or i would need a MUA. So I pushed xtra hard in my exercises & worked most of the day. The next day my knee was as swollen as a watermelon. I couldn’t do anything for 3-4 days 🙁 Used lots of ice, elevation & rest. Now 12 wks & feel like i lost any progress I previously made 🤦🏻‍♂️ This is a true challenge.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

You are doing great at 105!! Especially at 6 weeks. But it all depends on what your goals are.

[@TheSunRiseKid]

I feel like I did the exact same thing! I totally went backwards and I’m at four months postop! I’ve already been to the doctor and he cleared me at 125 or 130. I am desperate to get pain relief.!!

[@sandraaustin1449]

I am now exactly the same. I was 108 deg at 9 weeks now I am 95 deg at 11 weeks and the pain is like a vice around my knee.

[@johnconklin9138]

@@sandraaustin1449 I have a vice too, a clamp and a stick tied to the side :) as well a quad that hates the world ! not a too painful but very very tight still at 6 weeks and very limiting. hang in there !

[@a.p.5906]

I had my surgery February 15th. I live in France away from the city and there's not enough physical therapist for home care so I've been doing everything on my own. It's been difficult. I have an appointment March 27 to start therapy at a center. It was the earliest I could get. I'm pretty sure I'll be behind where I should be .

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Please look into my post surgery course!! This is exactly why I made this course. Https://www.succeedcourses.com/post-surgery-course

[@a.p.5906]

@@dr.samanthasmith Thank you. I'll have a look.

[@rosalindjohnston4824]

Dr Sam, when you say make sure you do your stretches after ice and elevation, what type of stretches should I be doing?

[@jefffishback6417]

Yes, I figured that there is nothing I can do for either problem.

[@bigred6220]

She’s so right!! You HAVE TO be Johnny on the spot with ice and walking every hr and doing what exercise you can handle all day every day. You CANNOT be lazy after this surgery or it will bite you in the ass!

[@connecticutboy]

Wish I saw this informative video earlier. I'm nine months post-op from bilateral knee replacement. Yes, I pushed myself hard after three months. I was religiously icing and elevating and still do, had 18 PT, 12 chiropractor, 6 acupuncture session's and have been using the H-wave machine. I have on any given day 120-125 knee flexion and on days that they swell up 50-60 flexion. I know time is my friend but I can't sit for any longer than 20 minutes without my legs locking up and standing for longer then 20 minutes My main question is both my knees give out and any given time for unknown reasons. My orthopedic doctor says it's in my head, I can understand pain comes from the head but I'm skeptical that my stability comes from there. Any information would be greatly appreciated. I'm on all the FB knee replacement sights and know have really assisted me.Thank you.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

When the knee gives out unexpectedly it can either be from weak quad muscles or could possible be from the implant itself. Have you sought out a second opinion from another surgeon? I’d be curious to see if another surgeon would see any issues with your X-ray in terms of implant size, shape and Angle.

[@eloymascarenas1286]

Thanks Doctor for all this advice you are giving to us on this page. I had my surgery today and I will start my PT Friday. I am icing quite a bit and using my calf squeezers, 30 on 30 off. and hopefully you can help with a question? Can I use my stationary bike in one week?

[@dr.samanthasmith]

By day 7 or so you should be able to try the bike. Just take it slow

[@user-tw3fb4zv8u]

I still have the stiffness in my knees .I have had 2 replacement s and 1 revision and still have the stiffness 2015 was the revision on left knee.having knee pain after I had surgery for female issue

[@jaredqiruing9235]

Im at day 8 and hit 110. Swelling still bad but i know will improved

[@burhan6826]

I am 67 yrs old and having Patela surgery now advised for knee bending during a span of 4,,days I am doing which I am doing 4t times a day for only 5 minutes at a time but facing sever stiffness somtims pain. But only achieved 30deg resul.

[@jojaz1751]

8 weeks p o and I think I am overdoing it trying to get back to daily life( live alone)along with coming back @ 5 weeks from "aggressive PT"- foot shoved on table to butt with no incremental inching- extreme pain and weeks of severe swelling, lost 15° of ROM…have now added pool exercise which is heavenly but still can’t bend knee easily.Can you reference the "stretching" you mentioned in this video? I’ve been doing your 10 minute stretch video, very helpful. This video also has made me aware that this recovery will TAKE TIME….thanks for all you do. 😊

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Have you seen my Knee Bending Course? This would be a great option for you to help with the bending. It will get you on track quickly. www.succeedcourses.com/Knee-bending-course

[@dandtintennessee7675]

Ill be 4.weeks post op tomorrow and I'm at 135 degrees as of today. I do think im overdoing it though and spending too much time on my feet. I'm not very good at sitting and relaxing. Still working on that.

[@TinaSmall-wl3we]

Do you have any additional recommendations for an above-knee amputee getting a total knee replacement?… An active 64-year-old who wears a prosthetic limb every day (has been an amputee 46 years), but has concerns the prosthesis will limit the PT recovery. Thx

[@B_Solid85]

What’s your suggestion for 8 months out and my knee doesn’t bend straight. I’m at about 7% away from having a straight knee. When I’m standing my knee is visibly bent forward. Thanks for any suggestion!!!

[@karenb.9939]

So ice before PT? How long PO should you ice/elevate??

[@padmabaheti559]

Greetings, I am very happy with the information you provided. I am not into facebook, I am interested in the streching you mentioned.. I have TKR 3 weeks back and doing PT 3 times a day at home and 2 times weekly at PT facility. I want to know the stretching exercizes. Please provide a link to them. Thanks.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

All the stretches are in my Post Surgery Course. Hope you can join!! Www.Succeedcourses.Com/post-surgery-course

[@kford6643]

34 years ago l had 3 surgeries on my left knee and 2 surgeries on my right knee after I broke both kneecaps(patellas) simultaneously while playing basketball at the YMCA after a freakish injury after a sudden jump stop move proved too forceful for my knees as they both snapped instantly. My doctors had never heard of such an injury involving both knees while playing basketball.. This included a near fatal case of toxic shock syndrome when my left knee became infected while my wounds were healing. For the next 20 years I had knee pain and stiffness off and on. Then I decided to focus on changing my mindset as well as exercise and healthier eating along with intermittent fasting (losing 40 pounds in the process) and that was a game changer. Today at 55 years old I have virtually no knee pain or stiffness and I'm in the best shape of my adult life. Now I'm a weight loss coach with the goal of helping others overcome their own similar challenges. Have you heard of a similar injury to the one l experienced? I'm very curious. Thank you

[@kqh123]

That's an incredible story. Curious to know, what do you mean by "broken knee"? Do mean the patellas fractured, or something else?

[@kford6643]

@@kqh123 Yes, I actually broke both kneecaps(Patella’s) . Nothing else before or since.

[@comfortadu-boahene4602]

I did knee replacement about 8months ago and am personal support worker my is 12hrs shift is it for 12hrs shift?

[@baljindersaroya8019]

Hi Doctor I got operated 2 months ago of my right knee and now when I stretch my knee it sounds like cracking.. it pops a little cracking sound from the joint of the knee.. what’s the reason behind that?

[@aaliyah154]

I am 28 and just had articulating spacer placed in my knee. I was locked in extension for about a week with very little bending. I am now starting ti bend it but it feels like my kneecap is hindering from pushing my knee further. Any tips? I start PT in 2 weeks

[@sdb1147]

My TKR is scheduled for Wednesday, February 15, 2023.

[@troxlerh437]

I fractured my right knee cap back in February. Had surgery and am in PT rehab ever since. I'm very stiff in the morning. My muscles are sore after every PT session. I'm only able to get my knee bent to 81 degrees do far. I've been in rehab since mid February, is my progress normal for a fracture like this?!

[@maribelgomez370]

Hi, I’m one month in after knee replacement. Doing exercises and stretching but my bending is very minimal. It hurts when I bend so the pain stops me from bending any further. What do I do?

[@tonyguerra5264]

Where there's a band feels like on the back of my hamstring and on side of my calves that hurt's 😢

[@k.t.portugal6106]

January 8th it will be a month i got my surgery 😢this is so frustrating it's more the stiffness, I'm good in walking and going up and down the stairs 👍I then put the ice pack wrap it and put the silky sock I feel better stiffness goes down, now I see it's cuz I might be doing too much exercise 😮

[@seancolon9890]

I can think of another surgery.. Meniscus Transplant surgery... :-) That was the worse pain/ surgery of my life!! I am going for a full knee replacement on March 1st in PA The previous Mensicus transplant failed after a year.. :-/

[@sarouheng3734]

Thanks for sharing Dr. Having TKR 13days and operated knee is swelling. How to reduce sore?

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Unfortunately the swelling lasts for several months

[@thedroneguy123]

I was discharged 6 months ago (UK) and am nearly 2 years post op and I still only have 90 degrees of bend. No pain it just won’t go any further

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Oh no. At this point you probably have scar tissue. I would seek out a second opinion

[@fabp4289]

Thank you for the information I will work hard to increase my ROM …I am behind😢

[@dr.samanthasmith]

You can do it! If you need help, please visit my website. Https://www.succeedcourses.com/post-surgery-course

[@ambigaambiga3089]

Hi Doctor I had my tkr 2 months ago. And i am still in 80 degree. For me i can't tolerate the knee bending like sleeping And bending using a shawl or other equipment. More often l am doing squatting , sittings in the chair end and bending my knees step ecercise . Will those excercises increase my knee bending?

[@lurky5913]

I didnt have tkr but i had tibial plateau fracture and now i cant bend it past 85 or 80 degrees,its been almost a month since surgery im so so so sooooo frustrated

[@maryjohns1145]

Thank you! Im at close to 12 weeks. I had 140 degree flex at 3 1/2 weeks so that's good. I am walking 2 miles, about 3x a week and doing my own PT now that Im done w PT at clinic. I have so much stiffness and nercve pain in quad area and zings by my inner side of knee. Normal? Im so looking forward to 6 months mark. Things will improve w swelling, right? I still ice a lot too. Thank you

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Https://www.succeedcourses.com/blog/what-helps-nerve-pain-after-knee-replacement

[@frankloccke4313]

‘I’m at 13 weeks and I think I’m doing well however when I bend my knee I feel pain in the back of my knee. Is this normal and will it resolve in time or should I be doing something else? Also, I do enjoy your videos.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Sounds pretty typical. Swelling likes to accumulate in the back of the knee. There’s a lot of room back there for the fluid.

[@user-fj7ks6mz6n]

Hi Dr Samantha, I’m at 4 months post op TKR and am at 125 degrees ROM, I feel like I can get more out of it once the swelling/stiffness goes down. I’m still doing daily stretching and exercises and gym leg work outs. What are your thoughts on gaining more ROM 4 to 6 months out after TKR? Thank you

[@schriej]

I’d like to know this too. I’m 3 mos out and all of a sudden have stiffness in my knee again

[@bornin1948]

@@schriej I had the same experience 6 weeks post op and it coincided with walking after about 2 weeks.

[@farjanajahannisa9467]

I had a corrective osteotomy surgery from thigh to knee because of genu valgrum deformity 2 months ago.After 22 days physiotherapy now I can bend knee 90°.I can't bend my knee over 90°.Whats should I do😢?

[@maryc5052]

I've had this problem with my knee 15 months of Pt after a hip replacement. :(

[@serenadale7882]

I had bilateral knee replacement I have healed well but I suffer from a lot of stiffness at the back of both knees . I have good flexión in knee itself

[@dr.samanthasmith]

The back of the knee pain is a common place of stiffness. There’s a lot of room back there for swelling to accumulate

[@timsweigart7563]

I am 8 years out of bilateral knee replacement and my ROM has reduced from 100 degrees during active PT and now, it is reduced to less than 40 degrees flexion. I have difficulty going down stairs and biking is a long time past activity. I would love for someone to give me information that would enable me to get greater flexion and extension. I feel it is beyond improvement at this point in time.

[@dorisluker8277]

My surgery was 4 years ago and my knee still feels restricted, like I am wearing a belt around it.

[@user-lk4zr1lb4d]

Hi Doctor, My Patella broke into several pieces after falling at work and required ORIF Patella. . Can you please add a course about S/P Patella ORIF surgery?

[@valgogetthompson4314]

Myself would love for her to talk on fractured patella

[@rociobaez7321]

Please show examples of therapy visualize

[@dr.samanthasmith]

I have a ton of other videos with information

[@chrismakowski5379]

I had a total knee replacement and 1 month later it failed. One side collapsed and crushed the tibia. I ended up with a revision on Nov. I had the old kind where cement wasn't used and long shaft was put into the tibia. I was in wheelchair in rehab for 2 mos with no wght bearing so bone could grow around shaft. My question is: do u have any info on recovery etc for this kind of revision surgery? I'm able to walk and drive. Ended PT in Feb. ROM.130 deg flexion. Still have pain and live in house with steps. Should I b walking a lot or just regular errands etc? What should I not be doing or can I do anything I want as tolerated.? I don't see ortho Dr anymore. Thank you Chris M

[@dr.samanthasmith]

I’d youve been cleared by your surgeon to get back to normal life, I would just let pain be your guide with your overall activity levels.

[@Bronzeey1]

Iam doing therapy 4 times Dailey n the stiffness come right back n the soreness never leave n it’s been since October 31st. I admit I don’t like taking the pain pills only as I need them. What can I do to get rid of the soreness n my skin keeps peeling after surgery? Thank you.

[@JulioH1991]

Hi Dr S: why do I have joint clicking for first time after 3 months TKR great results? What do differently? Tks!

[@marytesta3003]

I think the clicking is normal to some degree. It's not soft cushion in there to buffer that. I feel it very slightly on stairs.

[@derrickboscombe2385]

Hi Doctor. I had a TKR on 7 February. All was going well until my last visit to my physiotherapist last Wednesday where I did other exercises. Since then I have had a lot of discomfort and the knee is very stiff. I have been icing the knee with an ice pack or direct ice and then applying a herbal relief cream. At 2am this morning when going out of the bathroom, there was a loud "crack" in the joint, so it seems as if the knee joint was "locked". Could this be the cause of all the pain I'm experiencing? Many thanks

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Usually if the cracks and pops don’t follow with pain, you are okay. Always check with your surgeon. Also please join the facebook group. Https://facebook.com/groups/3278770492360139/?ref=share

[@totlinegrant3418]

lm 8wks but still have stiffness but im bending at 110

[@ritamendonca2763]

Can u tell me in how many days can we walk the steps up dwn,&walker to be used for hw many days after surgery

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Here’s an article I wrote about walking: www.succeedcourses.com/blog/how-much-walking-after-knee-replacement

[@davidmartin7660]

Ok Doc. My biggest frustration right now is crossing my leg. Not an ankle cross, but ankle over knee. I’m at about 120 degrees of flex, but that ability to have that side movement is a bit challenging, particularly for things like putting on socks from a seated position. So, is this something that will eventually come or just not a typical position for a replacement knee?

[@dr.samanthasmith]

You should be able to do it eventually. The muscle needs to stretch out more. Are you just feeling stiff while doing it? Or can you just not do it?

[@davidmartin7660]

@@dr.samanthasmith seem odd that I have the 120 degrees of flex in the front to back position, but if I try to cross my leg I swear I only have about 75 degrees of movement. It has to be something about the knee being asked to be in that position that makes it painful. I guess it’s muscle stretch if the replacement knee is capable of that position and should be pain free.

[@davidmartin7660]

@@dr.samanthasmith ya still stiff.

[@joanallen5253]

Same thing with me. I was soaking my feet so I could clip my toenails and I could barely do it. I forced it and ever since then, I can cross my legs and put on socks easily.

[@Bonnie62563]

I am almost 7 weeks post op and my rom is 98 and flexión is -2 ; everyday I wake up with a terribly stiff knee, and the exercises are awfully painful. I go to PT twice a week. I am concerned that at my next docs appointment the end of the month I will not have achieved the 120 rom, and they will suggest a MUA. Any ideas. 😢

[@nanetteshealy365]

I’m at 6 months and I’m just at 90-100 and I’m stuck. I was at 115 but regressed. Now I’m pushing my knee and it’s super painful and stiff. 😢

[@user-by9ie4fy2l]

I had a TKR five months ago. I have been happy with the results. I do have two concerns. First, continued swelling in my knee. Second and greatest concern deals with when walking especially in the yard on a decline. My repaired knee seems to give out or not lock. With winter coming I am developing a fear of falling. I have been increasing the use of my stationary bike to assist in quad strengthening. What’s up!… What can I do? My thanks

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Biking unfortunately isn’t enough to strengthen the quads. You’ll want to do a progressive exercise program. I have an exercise class! succeedcourses.com/Exercise-class

[@noleenmelnikov6518]

Hello! I had a question. I had meniscus tear surgery in October 2022. My question is it common to have knee pain ,swelling and can I jog ? My knee is still kinda stiff and cannot bend 130 (full range of motion). Im close to it . I do elevate and ice

[@dr.samanthasmith]

You are a year post surgery so you should have full range of motion and minimal pain. Have you seen the doc recently? I wonder if there is something else going on in the knee

[@vsp4149]

I have undergone TKR 6 weeks back.My physieo is making me do all exercises daily.Iam repeating the same in the evening .Able to walk without support. Iam unable to bend the knee n lot of stiffness is there near knee n feeling warm near knee.No swelling What should I do to get rid of the stiffness ?

[@michaelgarcia5181]

I’m 17 days in from total left knee. I’m at 70-75 degrees and getting very impatient. This is very hard. Next knee to be done in early Nov.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Keep stretching! You still got time. My post surgery course will be helpful too. Https://www.succeedcourses.com/post-surgery-course

[@michelleh8287]

What about ice during sleep?

[@totlinegrant3418]

Can you put a support stocking on

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Yup! That helps with swelling a lot.

[@pamelawilliams2739]

It's almost a year still having problems bending it bk

[@tonidavis6910]

I just had my Total Knee Replacement on the 13th of June...Why am I feeling so much stiffness? I'm doing my exercises and my range is 100 for three weeks

[@jenniferwatson634]

Have you ever heard of someone having leg cramps after TKR and it only cramps when they have their foot lifted off the ground? Like when I go to bed or have legs stretched out on the couch my TKR leg will cramp. All my labs are normal and I’m plenty hydrated.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

Oh yes. Leg cramps can be very frequent. When you have foot lifted off the ground, you can contracting the muscles causes the spasms/cramps

[@pali.prince6162]

Hello. I had a total knee replacement surgery 7 weeks ago and can't straighten my leg yet. The best I can do is 25 degrees. Is that concerning? I can't walk without a walker either.

[@dr.samanthasmith]

You’ll want to talk to the doc about this. Have you been stretching often?

[@alanmabbutt1]

6years post surgery and my knee is still swollen. Its also unstable, clicks, locks and always painful. These problems have been there from day one. My surgeon is no longer available.😢

[@jimout100]

I had total knee replacement 9 weeks ago to this day. I have been doing daily exercises and walking, however last week I went to a local pool where they have Rehab sessions. I took part in the session and did not fell any pain. That night I could could hardly walk. I am much better now but I have lost some motion in my knee flex and also cannot walk as well. What should I do ?

[@dr.samanthasmith]

I would listen to your body and let yourself rest a couple days. Ice and elevation are helpful. It’s normal to have ups and downs throughout this process. Please join the Facebook group for more help! Https://facebook.com/groups/3278770492360139/?ref=share