In Episode 30 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explores why sleep often feels so disrupted after knee replacement and why this experience is both common and expected during early healing. She explains how swelling, pain sensitivity, and nervous system changes influence sleep, and walks listeners through back sleeping, side sleeping, and recliner use with a focus on comfort, safety, and flexibility rather than rigid rules. Michelle also addresses common misconceptions about sleep positions, reassures listeners that restless nights do not mean healing is failing, and emphasizes practical ways to support rest by managing swelling, pain, and expectations. By the end of the episode, listeners gain reassurance, clarity, and permission to prioritize supported rest over perfect sleep as their body heals.

More information at totalkneesuccess.com

What will you do in the two weeks before surgery? You need a clear checklist for the final 14 days before knee replacement — so you know exactly what to prepare, what to expect, and how to set yourself up for a smoother first week after surgery. Click on this link: totalkneesuccess.kit.com/free2weeklaunch

Medical Disclaimer This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or healing process. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer Some links shared may be affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Evidence-Based Content Statement This episode integrates peer-reviewed research, clinical expertise, and current rehabilitation principles related to healing after total knee replacement.

Music Licensing Statement Music used in this podcast is licensed for use under applicable agreements.

References Wylde V, Beswick AD, Dennis J, Gooberman-Hill R. Post-operative patient-reported outcomes after total knee replacement: a systematic review of sleep, pain, and function. Bone Joint J. 2018;100-B(6):700-707.

Naylor JM, McBurney H, Ko V, Harmer AR. Outcome measures in the early postoperative phase after total knee replacement: poor sleep and fatigue are common despite functional gains. Phys Ther. 2014;94(5):673-685.

Jette DU, Hunter SJ, Burkett L, et al. Physical Therapist Management of Total Knee Arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2020;100(9):1603-1631.

Bourne RB, Chesworth BM, Davis AM, Mahomed NN, Charron KDJ. Patient satisfaction after total knee arthroplasty: who is satisfied and who is not? Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2010;468(1):57-63.

Orange GM, Murphy MC, Jones M, et al. Physical function following total knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis: a longitudinal systematic review with meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(1):1-15.

Singh JA, Lewallen DG. Predictors of activity limitation and pain outcomes after total knee arthroplasty. J Arthroplasty. 2013;28(6):e1-e5.

Katz JN, Wright EA, Guadagnoli E, et al. Differences between men and women undergoing major orthopedic surgery for chronic pain: sleep, pain, and functional recovery. Arthritis Rheum. 2011;63(10):3064-3070.

Kehlet H, Dahl JB. Anaesthesia, surgery, and challenges in postoperative healing: pain, sleep, and fatigue. Lancet. 2003;362(9399):1921-1928.

In Episode 29 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle walks through the most common mistakes people make before knee replacement surgery—including resting too much, waiting for pain to improve before moving, underestimating the role of strength and endurance, and going into surgery with unrealistic expectations. You’ll learn why smart, intentional preparation matters, how prehabilitation can support a smoother early recovery, and what to focus on in the final weeks before surgery. This episode is designed to help you feel more informed, more confident, and better prepared as you head toward knee replacement.

More information at totalkneesuccess.com

What will you do in the two weeks before surgery? You need a clear checklist for the final 14 days before knee replacement — so you know exactly what to prepare, what to expect, and how to set yourself up for a smoother first week after surgery. Click on this link: totalkneesuccess.kit.com/free2weeklaunch

Medical Disclaimer

The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your surgeon, physical therapist, or qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you hear on this podcast. This show is not affiliated with Michelle’s clinical or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to purchase through a referenced link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions support the continued creation of free educational resources.

Evidence-Based Content Statement

All information presented in this episode reflects current peer-reviewed research and professional guidelines available at the time of recording.

Music Licensing Statement

Music used in this episode is licensed through Descript.

References

1. Gränicher U, Delaune V, Giesinger JM, et al. Effects of prehabilitation before total knee arthroplasty on function and recovery: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Arthroplasty. 2022;37(8):S389-S399.
2. Bricca A, Juhl CB, Steultjens M, Wirth W, Roos EM. Impact of exercise therapy on knee joint structure in people with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2019;27(7):999-1011.
3. Orange ST, Northgraves MJ, Marshall P, Madden LA, Vince RV. Expectations, experiences, and recovery following total knee arthroplasty: A longitudinal cohort study. Phys Ther. 2020;100(10):1804-1814.
4. Minick KI, Kahle N, Smith B, et al. Patient education and structured rehabilitation pathways following total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(4):1-10.
5. Capin JJ, Khandha A, Zarzycki R, et al. Progressive rehabilitation and self-management after total knee arthroplasty: Associations with functional outcomes. Phys Ther. 2022;102(5):pzac028.
6. Arhos EK, Trudelle-Jackson E, Brown M, et al. Quadriceps activation failure after total knee arthroplasty: Implications for rehabilitation. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(8):391-398.
7. Na Y, Shi Y, Han C, et al. Diabetes mellitus and outcomes after total knee arthroplasty: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Knee Surg. 2020;33(5):495-504.

In Episode 28 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explains how much walking is appropriate in the first two weeks after total knee replacement and why the early focus should be on short, frequent, controlled bouts of walking rather than distance. She discusses surgeon-recommended limits including five-minute and ten-minute hourly walks, specific step caps, and the importance of respecting tissue tolerance. The episode emphasizes that early activity does not predict long-term outcomes and that recovery is strengthened by patience, pacing, and alignment with surgeon and therapist recommendations.

More information at totalkneesuccess.com

What will you do in the two weeks before surgery? You need a clear checklist for the final 14 days before knee replacement — so you know exactly what to prepare, what to expect, and how to set yourself up for a smoother first week after surgery. Click on this link: totalkneesuccess.kit.com/free2weeklaunch

Medical Disclaimer The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your surgeon, physical therapist, or qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you hear on this podcast. This show is not affiliated with Michelle’s clinical or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to purchase through a referenced link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions support the continued creation of free educational resources.

Evidence-Based Content Statement All information presented in this episode reflects current peer-reviewed research and professional guidelines available at the time of recording.

Music Licensing Statement Music used in this episode is licensed through Descript.

References

Dandis A, et al. Latent class analysis to predict outcomes of early high-intensity physical therapy after total knee arthroplasty, based on longitudinal trajectories of walking speed. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(7):362-374.

Duong V, Dennis S, Ferreira ML, et al. Predictors of adherence to a step count intervention following total knee replacement: an exploratory cohort study. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):620-629.

Orange GM, Jones M, Stanton TR, et al. Physical function following total knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis: a longitudinal systematic review with meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(1):1-19.

Minick KI, Hunter SJ, Capin JJ, et al. Improved outcomes following a care guideline implementation: part 1 of an analysis of 12,355 patients after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(3):143-150.

Bricca A, et al. Exercise therapy “wears down” my knee joint: myth or reality? J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(7):463-479.

Gränicher P, Mulder L, Lenssen T, et al. Prehabilitation improves knee functioning before and within the first year after total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review with meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(11):709-725.

Goff AJ, Donaldson A, Silva DD, et al. Physical therapists prioritize providing education about exercise therapy and dispelling misconceptions about radiology for people with knee osteoarthritis: a concept mapping study. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):607-619.

In Episode 27 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle guides you through exactly what to focus on in the final two weeks before your knee replacement so you can walk into surgery feeling steady and prepared. She explains why this isn’t the time to push your strength, how to set up your home for an easier first week, and why simple organization can make those early days feel calmer. Michelle also shares insights from the latest research and from real patients who’ve been through it, all to help you feel confident heading into surgery. She closes with a preview of next week’s episode on how much walking is actually appropriate right after knee replacement. More information at totalkneesuccess.com

What will you do in the two weeks before surgery? You need a clear checklist for the final 14 days before knee replacement — so you know exactly what to prepare, what to expect, and how to set yourself up for a smoother first week after surgery. Click on this link: totalkneesuccess.kit.com/free2weeklaunch

Medical Disclaimer The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your surgeon, physical therapist, or qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you hear on this podcast. This show is not affiliated with Michelle’s clinical or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to purchase through a referenced link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions support the continued creation of free educational resources.

Evidence-Based Content Statement All information presented in this episode reflects current peer-reviewed research and professional guidelines available at the time of recording.

Music Licensing Statement Music used in this episode is licensed through Descript.

References

Gränicher P, Mulder L, Lenssen T, et al. Prehabilitation improves knee functioning before and within the first year after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(11):709–725.

Goff AJ, Donaldson A, Silva DO, Crossley KM, Barton CJ. Physical therapists prioritize providing education about exercise therapy for people with knee osteoarthritis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):607–618.

Na A, Coronado RA, Blanck CR, et al. Diabetes mellitus blunts the functional and quality-of-life benefits of total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(6):269–280.

Minick KI, Hunter SJ, Capin JJ, et al. Improved outcomes following a care guideline implementation after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53:143–150.

Capin JJ, Minick KI, Stevens-Lapsley JE, et al. Variation in outcomes and number of visits following care guideline implementation: Part 2. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53:151–162.

Duong V, Dennis S, Ferreira ML, et al. Predictors of adherence to a step-count intervention following total knee replacement. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52:620–630.

Nunes GS, Mello R, da Cunha Ribeiro RP, et al. Are changes in dynamic knee movement control related to changes in pain or function in people with knee osteoarthritis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53:1–10.

Graber JJ, DeBenedictis B, Stevens-Lapsley JE, et al. Expert consensus for the use of outpatient rehabilitation visits after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53:1–10.

In Episode 26 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explains why the “other” knee—the one that didn’t have surgery—often feels tired or achy after total knee replacement. She discusses how arthritis in the opposite knee impacts balance and fall risk and brings in new research on function, movement control, strength, and prehabilitation. Listeners learn practical ways to support both knees using strength, pacing, and better movement habits.

Learn more at totalkneesuccess.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your surgeon, physical therapist, or another qualified medical provider with any questions you may have about your health. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you have heard on this podcast. This show is not affiliated with Michelle’s clinical or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to purchase through a referenced link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions support the continued creation of free educational resources. Only items commonly recommended in orthopedic rehabilitation are shared.

Evidence-Based Content Statement

All information presented in this episode reflects current peer-reviewed evidence and professional guidelines available at the time of recording.

Music Licensing Statement

Music used in this episode is licensed through Descript.

References

Si H, et al. Prevalence of falls and the association with knee osteoarthritis in the contralateral knee in patients with unilateral TKA: prospective cohort (N=376). Unpublished summary document.

Chan AC, et al. Sensitivity of balance assessments after total knee arthroplasty: BESTest and Mini-BESTest detect more change than Berg. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2018.

Orange S, et al. Physical function following total knee arthroplasty: a longitudinal systematic review. 2025.

Nunes GS, et al. Dynamic knee movement control and its relationship to changes in pain and function. 2023.

Gränicher L, et al. Prehabilitation improves knee functioning before and within the first year after total knee arthroplasty. 2022.

Minick K, et al. Improved outcomes following care guideline implementation. 2023.

Capin J, et al. Variation in outcomes and visits following care guideline implementation. 2023.

In Episode 25 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explores how wearable technology can support recovery after total knee replacement. She discusses step counters, smartphone apps, QR-code exercise programs, and motion-tracking sensors, and explains how these tools bring clarity to a process that can feel unpredictable. Michelle shares how wearables help people stay consistent, notice progress that isn’t always easy to feel day to day, and give therapists meaningful insight between visits. She also talks about why some surgeons limit steps early on, what research shows about step-count habits after surgery, and how real-time feedback from sensors can improve gait, confidence, and overall movement quality.

Medical Disclaimer

The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your surgeon, physical therapist, or another qualified medical provider with any questions you may have about your health. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you have heard on this podcast. This show is not affiliated with Michelle’s clinical or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to purchase through a referenced link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions support the continued creation of free educational resources. Only items commonly recommended in orthopedic rehabilitation are shared.

Evidence-Based Content Statement

All information presented in this episode reflects current peer-reviewed evidence and professional guidelines available at the time of recording.

Music Licensing Statement

Music used in this episode is licensed through Descript.

References

Gordon D, et al. Wearable devices to monitor patient outcomes after total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. 2025;145:155–166.

King MG, et al. Wearable sensors to guide remote rehabilitation following knee arthroplasty surgery: a systematic review. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2023;24:785.

Feng Y, et al. Wearable gait devices following knee replacement: a systematic review. Gait Posture. 2023;103:35–44.

Schaffer NE, et al. Accuracy of wearable motion sensors for monitoring knee range of motion after TKA: pilot study. Sensors (Basel). 2022;22(12):4567.

Duong V, et al. Predictors of adherence to a step count intervention following total knee replacement. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):620–630.

Roche MW, et al. Early clinical use of smart knee implants with embedded sensors: motion and step count tracking in TKA patients. J Arthroplasty. 2022;37(6):1090–1097.

Kelmers E, et al. Smart knee implants: an overview of current technology. Sensors (Basel). 2022;9(4):93.

Bahadori S, Immins T, Wainwright TW. Wearable motion tracking systems used in rehabilitation following hip and knee replacement: a review. J Orthop Res. 2018.

Constantinescu D, et al. The role of commercially available smartphone apps and wearable activity monitors in lower-limb arthroplasty rehabilitation: review. EFORT Open Rev. 2022;7(7):547–556.

Östlind E, Sant’Anna A, Eek F, et al. Physical activity patterns and adherence to using a wearable activity tracker among individuals with hip and/or knee osteoarthritis. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2021;22:450.

White DK, Hinman RS, Liles S, et al. A telehealth physical therapy intervention to increase physical activity in adults with knee osteoarthritis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025.

In Episode 24 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explains how the standard Timed Up and Go and the Dynamic Gait Index help clarify why walking may still feel hesitant or slower after total knee replacement. The episode breaks down what these tests measure, how therapists interpret the results, and how they relate to real-world walking challenges.

https://totalkneesuccess.com/walking-hesitation-after-knee-replacement-tests/

Medical Disclaimer The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your surgeon, physical therapist, or another qualified medical provider with any questions you may have about your health. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you have heard on this podcast. This show is not affiliated with Michelle’s clinical or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to purchase through a referenced link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions support the continued creation of free educational resources. Only items commonly recommended in orthopedic rehabilitation are shared.

Evidence-Based Content Statement All information presented in this episode reflects current peer-reviewed evidence and professional guidelines available at the time of recording.

Music Licensing Statement Music used in this episode is licensed through Descript.

References

Orange GM, Hince DA, Travers MJ, et al. Physical Function Following Total Knee Arthroplasty for Osteoarthritis: A Longitudinal Systematic Review With Meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(1):1–XX.

Na A, Oppermann LM, Jupiter DC, et al. Diabetes Mellitus Blunts the Symptoms, Physical Function, and Health-Related Quality of Life Benefits of Total Knee Arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(6):269–280.

Duong V, Dennis S, Ferreira ML, et al. Predictors of Adherence to a Step Count Intervention Following Total Knee Replacement. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):620–630.

Gränicher P, Mulder L, Lenssen T, et al. Prehabilitation Improves Knee Functioning Before and Within the First Year After Total Knee Arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(11):709–725.

Minick KI, Hunter SJ, Capin JJ, et al. Improved Outcomes Following Care Guideline Implementation. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(3):143–150.

Capin JJ, Minick KI, Stevens-Lapsley JE, et al. Variation in Outcomes and Number of Visits Following Care Guideline Implementation. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(3):151–160.

Dandis M, et al. Latent Class Analysis to Predict Outcomes of Early High-Intensity Physical Therapy After Total Knee Arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(7):362–371.

Goff AJ, Donaldson A, de Oliveira Silva D, et al. Education Priorities of Physical Therapists for People With Knee Osteoarthritis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):607–619.

Bricca A, Roos EM, et al. Exercise Therapy “Wears Down” My Knee Joint: Myth or Reality? J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(7):463–476.

In Episode 23 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explains how the Berg Balance Scale and the Mini-BESTest describe balance and mobility after total knee replacement. She reviews what each test measures, why many therapists still use the Berg, and why the Mini-BESTest often provides a clearer picture of dynamic balance and walking confidence.

Medical Disclaimer The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your surgeon, physical therapist, or qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you hear on this podcast. This show is not affiliated with Michelle’s clinical or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to purchase through a referenced link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions support the continued creation of free educational resources.

Visit totalkneesuccess.com for more information.

https://totalkneesuccess.com/still-wobbly-after-knee-replacement-balance-tests/

Evidence-Based Content Statement All information presented in this episode reflects current peer-reviewed research and professional guidelines available at the time of recording.

Music Licensing Statement Music used in this episode is licensed through Descript.

References

Orange GM, Hince DA, Travers MJ, et al. Physical Function Following Total Knee Arthroplasty for Osteoarthritis: A Longitudinal Systematic Review With Meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(1):1–XX.

Na A, Oppermann LM, Jupiter DC, et al. Diabetes Mellitus Blunts the Symptoms, Physical Function, and Health-Related Quality of Life Benefits of Total Knee Arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(6):269–280.

Duong V, Dennis S, Ferreira ML, et al. Predictors of Adherence to a Step Count Intervention Following Total Knee Replacement. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):620–630.

Gränicher P, Mulder L, Lenssen T, et al. Prehabilitation Improves Knee Functioning Before and Within the First Year After Total Knee Arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(11):709–725.

Minick KI, Hunter SJ, Capin JJ, et al. Improved Outcomes Following Care Guideline Implementation. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(3):143–150.

Capin JJ, Minick KI, Stevens-Lapsley JE, et al. Variation in Outcomes and Number of Visits Following Care Guideline Implementation. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(3):151–160.

Dandis M, et al. Latent Class Analysis to Predict Outcomes of Early High-Intensity Physical Therapy After Total Knee Arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(7):362–371.

Goff AJ, Donaldson A, de Oliveira Silva D, et al. Education Priorities of Physical Therapists for People With Knee Osteoarthritis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):607–619.

Bricca A, Roos EM, et al. Exercise Therapy “Wears Down” My Knee Joint: Myth or Reality? J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(7):463–476.

In Episode 22 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle examines how prehab affects the early period after knee replacement surgery. She explains why preparing the body ahead of time can make the first few days more familiar and manageable. The episode breaks down what the research shows, which patients tend to benefit the most, and how the physical preparation helps create a more stable starting point. Michelle also discusses what to expect in the first therapy sessions after surgery and previews upcoming episodes on balance and functional testing.

https://totalkneesuccess.com/prehab-before-knee-replacement/

More information at totalkneesuccess.com

What will you do in the two weeks before surgery? You need a clear checklist for the final 14 days before knee replacement — so you know exactly what to prepare, what to expect, and how to set yourself up for a smoother first week after surgery. Click on this link: totalkneesuccess.kit.com/free2weeklaunch

Medical Disclaimer

The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice from your surgeon, physical therapist, or qualified provider regarding your specific care. Never delay or disregard professional advice because of this podcast. The show is not affiliated with my clinic or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click a product link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions support the show and allow continued production of free, evidence-based content. I only share products commonly recommended for post-knee replacement use that patients have found helpful.

Evidence-Based Content Statement

All episode information reflects current peer-reviewed research and professional guidelines available at recording time.

Music Licensing Statement

Music used in this episode is licensed through Descript.

References

Gränicher P, Mulder L, Lenssen T, Scherr J, Swanenburg J, de Bie R. Prehabilitation Improves Knee Functioning Before and Within the First Year After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(11):709-725. doi:10.2519/jospt.2022.11211.

Minick KI, et al. Improved Outcomes Following a Care Guideline Implementation: Part 1 of an Analysis of 12,355 Patients. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(3):1-12. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11456.

Capin JJ, et al. Variation in Outcomes and Number of Visits Following Care Guideline Implementation: Part 2 of an Analysis Across Multiple Clinics. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(4):1-14. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11457.

Duong SB, et al. Predictors of Adherence to a Step-Count Intervention Following Total Knee Replacement: An Exploratory Study. Arthritis Care Res. 2022;74(2):224-233. doi:10.1002/acr.24566.

Dandis M, et al. Latent Class Analysis to Predict Outcomes of Early High-Intensity Physical Therapy After Total Knee Arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2021;101(9):pzab144. doi:10.1093/ptj/pzab144.

Goff AJ, et al. Physical Therapists Prioritize Providing Education About Exercise Therapy and Dispelling Misconceptions for Knee Osteoarthritis. Arthritis Care Res. 2022;74(12):2038-2048. doi:10.1002/acr.24759.

In Episode 21 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explains why knee stiffness after surgery is common and often long-lasting for a substantial subgroup of patients. She covers swelling, quad inhibition, and movement patterns, and uses the Minick and Capin studies to show what structured rehab actually looks like. Michelle discusses diabetes, activity patterns, NMES dosing and effectiveness, and gives clear strategies for both bending and straightening. She also highlights the role of prehab and why it improves early outcomes.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Learn more and access additional resources at TotalKneeSuccess.com.

https://totalkneesuccess.com/mid-rehab-total-knee-stiffness/

Medical Disclaimer: The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your specific condition or care. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. This podcast is not affiliated with Michelle’s clinic or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click a product link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support the podcast and allow me to keep creating free, evidence-based content.

Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information shared in this episode is based on current research and professional guidelines available at the time of recording.

Music Licensing Statement: Music used in this episode is licensed for use through Descript.

References

Orange GM, Hince DA, Travers MJ, et al. Physical function following total knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis: a longitudinal systematic review with meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(1).

Gränicher P, Vienneau J, Lübbeke A, et al. Prehabilitation improves knee functioning before and within the first year after total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review with meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(11):709-725.

Minick KI, Capin JJ, Stevens-Lapsley JE, et al. Improved outcomes following a care guideline implementation: Part 1 of an analysis of 12,355 patients after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(3):143-150.

Capin JJ, Minick KI, Stevens-Lapsley JE, et al. Variation in outcomes and number of visits following care guideline implementation: Part 2 of an analysis of 12,355 patients after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(3):151-158.

Arhos E, Sturgill L, Capin JJ. Who’s afraid of electrical stimulation? Let’s revisit the application of NMES at the knee. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2024;54(2):101-112.

Na A, Lim KY, Lee HJ, et al. Diabetes mellitus blunts the symptoms, physical function, and health-related quality-of-life benefits of total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(6):269-280.

Duong V, de Oliveira Silva D, Baker RT, et al. Predictors of adherence to a step-count intervention following total knee replacement: an exploratory cohort study. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):620-629.