In Episode 51 of the Total Knee Success podcast, Michelle explains how cortisone injections work before total knee replacement. She discusses how corticosteroids reduce inflammation, what relief to realistically expect, timing considerations before surgery, and how to determine whether a cortisone injection aligns with your overall surgical plan.

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Visit totalkneesuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.

Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

References

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Management of osteoarthritis of the knee (non‑arthroplasty) evidence‑based clinical practice guideline. Published August 31, 2021.

Orange GM, Hince DA, 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.

Ibad HA, Kasaeian A, Ghotbi E, et al. Longitudinal MRI‑defined cartilage loss and radiographic joint space narrowing following intra‑articular corticosteroid injection for knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta‑analysis. Osteoarthr Imaging. 2023;3(3):100157.

Bharadwaj UU, Lynch JA, Joseph GB, et al. Intra‑articular knee injections and progression of knee osteoarthritis: data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative. Radiology. 2025;315(2):e233081.

Werner BC, Cancienne JM, Browne JA. The timing of total knee arthroplasty after intra-articular corticosteroid injection affects postoperative infection risk. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2016;98(6):438-443.

Bedard NA, Pugely AJ, Westermann RW, Duchman KR, Glass NA, Callaghan JJ. Does the timing of previous intra-articular steroid injection affect the post-operative rate of infection in total knee arthroplasty? J Arthroplasty. 2017;32(1):382-387.

McAlindon TE, Bannuru RR, Sullivan MC, et al. OARSI guidelines for the non-surgical management of knee osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2014;22(3):363-388.

McAlindon TE, LaValley MP, Harvey WF, et al. Effect of intra‑articular triamcinolone vs saline on knee cartilage volume and pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA. 2017;317(19):1967-1975.

Lai Q, Cai K, Lin T, Zhou C, Chen Z, Zhang Q. Prior intra‑articular corticosteroid injection within 3 months may increase the risk of deep infection following total knee arthroplasty: a meta‑analysis. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2022;480(6):971-979.

In Episode 50 of the Total Knee Success podcast, Michelle explains how walking speed and endurance predict independence after total knee replacement. She outlines how to measure 10‑meter walking speed, discusses the 2‑ and 6‑minute walk tests for endurance, and connects gait performance to strength, balance, and long-term function.

NMES unit commonly used for quad muscle contraction

A second estim unit to check out

Get email when The Knee Replacement Game Plan is released.

Visit totalkneesuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.

Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

References

Arhos EK, Ito N, Snyder-Mackler L, et al. Who’s afraid of electrical stimulation? Let’s revisit the application of NMES at the knee. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2024;54(2):101-110.

Dandis NA, Stevens-Lapsley JE, Mizner RL. 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):362-370.

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.

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

Orange GM, Hince DA, 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.

White DK, Hinman RS, Liles S, et al. A telehealth physical therapy intervention to increase physical activity in adults with knee OA: The Delaware PEAK randomized controlled trial. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(5):377-389.

Bricca A, et al. Exercise therapy “wears down” my knee joint: Myth or reality? J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(7):463-468.

Chan ACM, Ouyang XH, Jehu DAM, Chung RCK, Pang MYC. Recovery of balance function among individuals with total knee arthroplasty: Comparison of responsiveness among four balance tests. Gait Posture. 2018;59:267-271.

In Episode 49 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explains the objective strength benchmarks that define meaningful recovery after total knee replacement. She breaks down quadriceps strength symmetry, sit-to-stand performance, stair descent control, and single-leg stability thresholds that predict long-term independence. Listeners learn why pain reduction alone does not define recovery and how measurable strength data creates clarity and direction. This episode lays the foundation for understanding how strength translates into walking performance in the next episode.

NMES unit commonly used for quad muscle contraction

A second estim unit to check out

Get email when The Knee Replacement Game Plan is released.

Visit totalkneesuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.

Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

References

Arhos EK, et al. Who’s Afraid of Electrical Stimulation? Let’s Revisit the Application of NMES at the Knee. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2024;54(2):101-111.

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.

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.

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):151-160.

Orange GM, Hince DA, 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.

Na A, et al. Diabetes Mellitus Blunts the Symptoms, Physical Function, and Health-Related Quality-of-Life Benefits of Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(6):269-280.

Dandis J, 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):362-372.

In Episode 48 of the Total Knee Success podcast, Michelle explains what truly defines a successful recovery after total knee replacement beyond range of motion and timelines. She discusses strength, functional performance, walking endurance, balance, and meaningful improvement as more accurate markers of progress. Listeners learn how to evaluate their own recovery in practical, real-life terms and gain clarity about whether they are truly on track.

NMES unit commonly used for quad muscle contraction

Get email when The Knee Replacement Game Plan is released.

Visit totalkneesuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.

Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

References

Orange GM, Hince DA, 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.

Arhos EK, Ito N, Stevens-Lapsley JE, et al. Who’s afraid of electrical stimulation? Let’s revisit the application of NMES at the knee. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2024;54(2):101-110.

Roush JR, et al. Preliminary evaluation of the clinimetrics of a modified Lower Extremity Functional Scale in older adults after total knee arthroplasty. JOSPT Open. 2024;2(3):240-250.

Dandis R, 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):362-370.

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

Aldhahwani BM, et al. Sociodemographic differences in short-term physical function outcomes after hip and knee arthroplasty in the United States: A scoping review. JOSPT Open. 2025;3(3):254-268.

Nunes GS, et al. Are changes in dynamic knee movement control related to changes in pain or function in people with knee disorders? A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(7):388-401.

White DK, et al. A telehealth physical therapy intervention to increase physical activity in adults with knee OA: The Delaware PEAK randomized controlled trial. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(5):377-388.

TKA Structured Research Guide. Balance and falls evidence summary. Updated 2025.

In Episode 47 of the Total Knee Success podcast, Michelle explains what prehabilitation actually changes before knee replacement and what it was never designed to control. She clarifies why prehab improves early strength and confidence but does not eliminate later slowdowns or plateaus. This episode reframes mid‑recovery challenges in a way that reduces self‑blame and supports steady, progressive rebuilding. Listeners walk away with a clearer understanding of how to use preparation strategically and why prehab remains a valuable investment in long‑term recovery.

NMES unit commonly used for quad muscle contraction

Get email when The Knee Replacement Game Plan is released.

Visit totalkneesuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.

Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

References

Gränicher U, 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. doi:10.2519/jospt.2022.11160

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. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11600

Orange GM, Hince DA, 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. doi:10.2519/jospt.2025.11800

Bricca A, et al. Exercise therapy “wears down” my knee joint: myth or reality? J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(7):463‑468.

Goff AJ, Donaldson A, de Oliveira Silva D, et al. Physical therapists prioritize providing education about exercise therapy and to dispel misconceptions about radiology for people with knee osteoarthritis: a concept mapping study. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):607‑618. doi:10.2519/jospt.2022.11054

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Total knee replacement exercise guide. OrthoInfo. Accessed February 16, 2026. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/recovery/total-knee-replacement-exercise-guide/

In Episode 46 of the Total Knee Success podcast, Michelle explains how to stay engaged after knee replacement when progress feels slower and less obvious. She discusses why mid-phase slowdowns are normal and why consistency, rather than constant testing or perfection, supports continued improvement. Michelle introduces ten research-informed activity options often used between three and six months after surgery and encourages listeners to use these as a starting point for thoughtful conversations with their physical therapist about where to focus next.

NMES unit commonly used for quad muscle contraction

A second estim unit to check out

Get email when The Knee Replacement Game Plan is released.

Visit totalkneesuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.

Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

References

Gränicher P, Mulder L, Lenssen T, Scherr J, Swanenburg J. 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, 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.

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):151–159.

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, Hince DA, 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):1–16.

Na A, Coronado RA, Fitzgerald GK, et al. Diabetes mellitus blunts the symptoms, physical function, and health-related quality of life benefits of total knee arthroplasty: A systematic review with meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(6):269–280.

In Episode 45 of the Total Knee Success podcast, Michelle explains why progress after total knee replacement often slows after the early postoperative phase and why that change does not mean recovery has stalled. The episode explores how deeper strength, endurance, and neuromuscular adaptations take longer to develop and are harder to see week to week. Michelle reviews research on recovery trajectories, adherence, and activity consistency after TKA, helping listeners understand why early gains do not predict long-term outcomes. The episode closes with guidance on when to seek individualized input from a physical therapist or surgeon and how to stay engaged without chasing perfection.

NMES unit commonly used for quad muscle contraction

A second estim unit to check out

Get email when The Knee Replacement Game Plan is released.

Visit totalkneesuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.

Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

References

Duong V, et al. Predictors of adherence to a step-count intervention following total knee replacement: an exploratory study. Phys Ther. 2022.

Minick KI, et al. Improved outcomes following a care guideline implementation after total knee arthroplasty: analysis of 12,355 patients. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023.

Orange ST, et al. Physical function following total knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis: a longitudinal systematic review. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2025.

Gränicher F, et al. Prehabilitation improves knee function before and after total knee arthroplasty. Clin Rehabil. 2022.

Graber J, et al. Expert consensus for outpatient rehabilitation visits after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023.

Capin JJ, et al. Variation in outcomes and rehabilitation utilization following care guideline implementation after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023.

Dandis K, et al. Predictors of outcomes after early high-intensity physical therapy following total knee arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2021.

Goff AJ, et al. Physical therapists’ perspectives on education and exercise after knee arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2022.

In Episode 44 of the Total Knee Success podcast, Michelle explains why being “cleared” after knee replacement does not mean recovery is complete. She explores the difference between medical clearance and true functional readiness, including strength, load tolerance, and neuromuscular recovery. The episode helps listeners understand why swelling, stiffness, or fatigue can persist despite surgical success and how to respond without fear. Listeners are guided to view clearance as permission to progress thoughtfully rather than pressure to perform.

NMES unit commonly used for quad muscle contraction

A second estim unit to check out

Get email when The Knee Replacement Game Plan is released.

Visit totalkneesuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.

Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

References: Vossen JA, et al. Long-term recovery of knee extensor strength after total knee arthroplasty. J Arthroplasty. 2025.

Sun Y, et al. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation after joint replacement surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Rehabil. 2025.

Arhos A, Ito Y, Stevens-Lapsley J, et al. Who’s afraid of electrical stimulation? Let’s revisit the application of neuromuscular electrical stimulation at the knee. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2024;54(2):101-110.

Orange GM, Hince DA, 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):1-20.

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):143-152.

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.

Graber J, Stevens-Lapsley J, et al. Expert consensus for the use of outpatient rehabilitation visits after total knee arthroplasty: a Delphi study. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(9):566-576.

In Episode 43 of the Total Knee Success podcast, Michelle explains the real healing timeline after knee replacement by walking through how skin, muscle, tendons, ligaments, and bone heal at different rates. She clarifies why the knee can look healed on the outside while deeper tissues are still adapting, and how this mismatch influences stiffness, swelling, and strength. The episode helps listeners understand how different tissues heal over time and what they can reasonably expect as recovery progresses.

NMES unit commonly used for quad muscle contraction

Get email when The Knee Replacement Game Plan is released.

Visit totalkneesuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.

Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

References

Orange GM, Hince DA, 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):1-14.

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(3):143-150.

Capin JJ, Hunter SJ, Minick KI, et al. Variation in outcomes and number of visits following care guideline implementation after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(3):151-160.

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.

Graber J, Stevens-Lapsley J, et al. Expert consensus for the use of outpatient rehabilitation visits after total knee arthroplasty: a Delphi study. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(9):566-578.

Dandis D, 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.

Na A, Coronado RA, 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.

Aldhahwani BM, et al. Sociodemographic differences in short-term physical function outcomes after hip and knee arthroplasty. JOSPT Open. 2025;3(3):254-266.

Werner BC, Carr JB, Browne JA. Risk factors, outcomes, and timing of manipulation under anesthesia after total knee arthroplasty. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2015;97(24):1956-1961.

In Episode 42 of the Total Knee Success podcast, Michelle explains how to decide when to progress walking after knee replacement without guessing or reacting out of fear. The episode focuses on practical signals such as recovery patterns, fatigue, walking speed trends, endurance, confidence, and assistive device use. Listeners learn how to interpret these signals to make informed progression decisions, shifting from uncertainty to clarity and building confidence in their recovery choices.

Check out this Self Standing Pivot Walking Cane or this Rollator Walker on Amazon

Get email when The Knee Replacement Game Plan is released.

Visit totalkneesuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.

Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

References: Minick KI, Hunter SJ, Capin JJ, Stevens-Lapsley JE, Snow G, 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):143-152. doi:10.2519/jospt.2022.11436.

Capin JJ, Kittelson AJ, Stevens-Lapsley JE, et al. Variation in outcomes and number of visits following care guideline implementation after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(4):1-12. doi:10.2519/jospt.2022.11437.

Dandis MT, Stevens-Lapsley JE, Kittelson AJ, 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):362-371. doi:10.2519/jospt.2021.10345.

Orange GM, Murphy MC, Wand BM, Sharma S, Kim S, 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):1-16. doi:10.2519/jospt.2024.12123.

Graber J, Stevens-Lapsley JE, Snyder-Mackler L, et al. Expert consensus for the use of outpatient rehabilitation visits after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(5):1-11. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11541.