Why Does Knee Replacement Recovery Take So Long?

[@cgaddy00]

These are incredibly sensible comments -- thanks! I am today 8 weeks out from a total knee replacement, wondering why I now seem to have more pain than, say, two or three weeks ago. You explain it well. "A marathon, not a sprint" -- exactly. And a marathon with some steep hills you may not have expected...

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

I'm glad you found some help and support with this video. I agree, there are definitely some steep hills and obstacles in that marathon too! All a part of the process...best wishes with your continued recovery from surgery.

[@RajenRaichura]

Same issue with me,more pain later,but take your pain meds,try toexercise everyday but don't overdo, ice your knee when in pain, in time you'll recover..I'm now 8 months after tkr and only have 10% pain.

[@michelerogers5941]

Why is there clicking when bending the knee after replacement surgery? The info you provided helped me to better understand why I'm going into the 13th month post- surgery and not at "that" healed point. Thank you!

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

Clicking can be caused by a couple different things such as the prosthetic components contacting each other, or friction from ligaments or other soft tissue moving against the new knee. Often it is more annoying than harmful. this video I've made can help share more details: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rGqQhKesg7qekNk

[@michelerogers5941]

@KneeReplacementTherapists, thank you for replying.

[@marypepin2835]

I am 7 months out and still have swelling and stiffness. I did 19 weeks PT and now am going back . I feel like I have scar tissue. Not enough hands on in PT I feel. Where or what would you suggest ? PT or something else? Thank you again for all of your videos. You are extremely helpful….😊

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

It sounds like you're doing everything you can, and it's great that you're seeking out help to continue your recovery. Swelling and stiffness can persist for several months after surgery, especially if there's excess scar tissue involved. If you're not feeling like you're getting enough hands-on attention in PT, you might want to consider seeking out a PT who specializes in manual therapy or myofascial release, which can be really effective for breaking up scar tissue and improving mobility. Also, make sure you're doing your home exercises regularly, as they can help supplement your PT sessions and encourage better mobility over time. Glad the videos are helpful! Keep going, and I hope you feel better soon! 😊

[@30neshia]

Hi there! I will be 2 years post op on December 6th. I still have pain when walking and standing more than sitting. I think it’s from extra scar tissue. I had an MRI 5 months ago. I didn’t understand the terminology used by the doctor to know what’s going on. He did suggest therapy again and maybe surgery to change the prosthetic. I opted out of both because I still do my exercises taught to me by PT. I also, still use ice from time to time. I want to know your suggestion on what I may add to break up the scar tissue more so I can walk without pain. THANK YOU so much for your Expertise!!!!!!!!!

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

Scar tissue can definitely be a factor in limiting mobility and causing discomfort, and while physical therapy exercises are essential for maintaining strength and flexibility, there are a few additional approaches that might help break up scar tissue and improve your mobility. First, consider gentle myofascial release or soft tissue massage. This can help target the scar tissue and break it down over time. A skilled therapist can guide you through techniques to improve tissue flexibility and release tightness around the knee. Another option is foam rolling around the surrounding muscles-especially the quads, hamstrings, and calves-since tight muscles can also contribute to pain and restriction. You can also try heat therapy before stretching or exercising to help loosen the tissue, making the stretches and exercises more effective. It’s great that you’re still committed to doing your exercises and using ice when needed, but if you're not seeing enough progress, it may be worth exploring other treatments or following up with your doctor. Hang in there, and keep up the hard work! Wishing you continued healing!

[@kathyclark3168]

You're always spot on! March of 2025 will mark 2 years since my knee replacement. No complaints, but stairs are still an issue, I'd rather walk up the ramp here at the house than ascend stairs. I'm active in exercise. Look foward to more videos 😊

[@RajenRaichura]

It's 8 months for me now and the best thing you can do for yourself is to keep doing your exercises, eventually you'll recover quickly, take your pain medication.

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

Thank you for your kind words, I'm very glad you've found them so helpful! Glad to hear overall you are doing well! 🙂

[@RajenRaichura]

Hi I've been doing your TKR exercises from your KZbin channel and they have worked very well. Simple and easy to follow instructions . Keep up the good work .

[@pearlenethomas9057]

What exercises do you be doing, maybe I'll give them a try.

[@RajenRaichura]

Hi,just watch kee to knoe old videos ,his exercise routine ft0m day 1 after surgery to his 12 week and beyond. Sometimes if you feel a lot of pain dont exercise, rest.While doing them listen to your fav music or watch tv..Avoid exercises which hurt, slowly youll start feeling stronger and have less pain. DONT OVER EXERCISE.😢​@pearlenethomas9057

[@pearlenethomas9057]

Me too. I had my first one in 2020,and the last one in 2021, both in November. To this day, I'm still not walking very well. Seems as if I'll have a permanent little limp! 😢😢

[@kathyclark3168]

@@pearlenethomas9057 positive thinking only that you won't 😊

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

Sorry to hear you are still dealing with walking difficulties. Continue to try to stay active and consider following up with a physical therapist to learn some exercises you can try to help walk better. Hope you're able to address this issue and see improvements in your walking soon.

[@KneeReplacementTherapists]

I agree, positive thinking is important, sometimes much easier said than done.

[@pearlenethomas9057]

@@KneeReplacementTherapists Do you have any suggestions?!