Knee arthroplasty

KNEE ARTHROPLASTY

Knee arthroplasty is a surgical procedure in which the damaged parts of the knee joint are replaced with artificial components in order to reduce pain and improve function. It is most commonly offered to people with advanced osteoarthritis or other degenerative changes when pain, stiffness and reduced mobility significantly affect daily activities, despite non-surgical measures such as medication, exercise and physiotherapy.

After knee arthroplasty, physiotherapy plays a central role in recovery by helping restore movement, build strength and improve walking patterns. Rehabilitation is gradual and tailored to each person’s condition, with the aim of achieving a knee that is more comfortable, more stable and more useful in everyday life.

What changes in the joint

During knee arthroplasty, the surgeon removes the worn-out joint surfaces from the lower end of the femur and the upper part of the tibia and replaces them with metal and plastic components that recreate the smooth surfaces of the joint. In some cases, the back surface of the patella is also resurfaced. The main aim is to restore a more regular joint surface, improve overall limb alignment and reduce the painful stimuli coming from the arthritic knee.

In the first days after surgery, most patients begin gentle exercises and short walks with assistance under the supervision of the surgical and physiotherapy team. Over time, rehabilitation focuses on increasing knee flexion and extension, strengthening the quadriceps and hip muscles, improving balance and control and gradually reducing reliance on walking aids. The total recovery time can vary, but many people notice clear improvements during the first months, with further gains in comfort and function when they follow a structured, consistent rehabilitation plan.

First rehabilitation steps

Physiotherapy around knee arthroplasty can be thought of in two main phases: pre-operative preparation and post-operative rehabilitation. Before surgery, strengthening the quadriceps, hip muscles and lower-leg muscles, as well as practising basic tasks such as standing up from a chair and walking short distances, can help the person enter surgery in better physical condition. This often makes the early post-operative days easier and can support a smoother overall recovery.

After knee arthroplasty, the rehabilitation plan is adjusted step by step. Initially, the focus is on safe walking with aids, pain and swelling management and gentle active or assisted motion. As confidence and tolerance improve, more targeted strengthening, balance and gait-training exercises are introduced, aiming at independence in daily activities. For some individuals, returning to more demanding tasks such as longer walks, light recreational exercise or specific hobbies happens gradually and is guided by clear criteria so that the knee is loaded safely at each stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a specific age for knee arthroplasty
There is no strict age cut-off; decisions are based on joint damage, overall health and how much symptoms affect everyday life.
When does physiotherapy start after knee arthroplasty?
It usually starts very early, often in the hospital, with gentle exercises and short assisted walks.
Will I have to use crutches or a walking aid?
Most people use crutches or a walker for the early weeks and then gradually reduce their use as strength and balance improve.
How long does it take before walking feels more comfortable?
Many notice a clear improvement in walking within the first few months, although the exact timeline can differ from person to person.
When can I start driving again?
Driving is usually allowed once you have enough strength and control to use the pedals safely your treating doctor will guide you on the exact timing.
Which exercises are most useful to do at home?
Simple bending and straightening movements, quadriceps strengthening and basic balance exercises are often helpful when done as instructed by your physiotherapist.
Is exercise possible again after knee arthroplasty?
Gentle activities such as walking, cycling on a stationary bike or swimming are often suitable once the knee is stable and exercise does not provoke pain.
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