Is physiotherapy necessary after knee replacement?

Yes. Physiotherapy and structured rehabilitation are important parts of recovery after knee replacement surgery.

The operation replaces damaged joint surfaces, but surgery alone does not automatically restore muscle strength, balance, knee movement, or a normal walking pattern.

What does physiotherapy help with?

Rehabilitation commonly focuses on:

• Regaining knee movement
• Improving knee straightening
• Gradually improving knee bending
• Strengthening the quadriceps and surrounding muscles
• Reducing stiffness
• Improving walking
• Restoring balance
• Learning to use and then gradually stop walking aids
• Returning safely to stairs and everyday activities

Early mobilisation is usually encouraged after knee replacement. Current NHS guidance notes that physiotherapists help patients begin walking after surgery and that prescribed exercises support long-term knee strength and movement.

Is the same physiotherapy plan used for everyone?

No.

The programme may differ according to:

• Partial or total knee replacement
• Patient age
• Muscle strength before surgery
• Range of movement
• Pain and swelling
• Other medical conditions
• Walking ability
• Rate of recovery

Some patients progress quickly, while others need longer supervised rehabilitation.

What happens if physiotherapy is ignored?

Inadequate rehabilitation may contribute to:

• Persistent stiffness
• Muscle weakness
• Poor walking pattern
• Reduced knee movement
• Difficulty climbing stairs
• Slower return to normal activities

Exercises also need to be performed correctly. Doing too much too early can aggravate pain and swelling, while doing too little can slow recovery.

At ASIC Clinic, Dr. Atul Mishra incorporates post-operative mobilisation and physiotherapy into the knee replacement recovery pathway. The rehabilitation programme is adjusted according to the patient’s surgery and progress rather than following exactly the same schedule for everyone.