In Episode 89 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle discusses six common myths people believe after knee replacement that can create confusion, frustration, and unrealistic expectations. She explains why surgery is only the beginning of the process, why pain and stiffness do not automatically mean something is wrong, why progress does not follow a perfect timeline, and why comparing your experience to someone else’s can make the process more difficult.

This episode helps listeners better understand the changes that happen after knee replacement and recognize progress that may be easy to overlook.

Read the Episode 89 article and resources

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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 orthopedics 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.

Episode 88 explores why progress after knee replacement can sometimes feel as though it has stalled, even when meaningful improvements are still taking place. Michelle explains why plateaus are common, how to distinguish a temporary slowdown from symptoms that deserve medical attention, and why looking at progress over weeks instead of days provides a much clearer picture. Episode 88 helps listeners understand that slower progress doesn’t necessarily mean they’ve reached the end of what they’re capable of achieving.

Read the Episode 88 article and resources

Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process.

Free 2-Week Launch

Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan

Free Top 5 Products for the First Two Weeks

Free Guide: Less Pain, More Gain

Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement

Free Top Ten Walking Tips

Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement

Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier

Resources at totalkneesuccess.com

Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle

Support the podcast

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 orthopedics 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.

Episode 87 explores five practical signs that you're making meaningful progress after knee replacement, even when the calendar leaves you questioning how you're doing. Michelle explains why improvements in walking, stair climbing, sleep, everyday activities, and growing independence provide a much clearer picture of functional progress than simply counting weeks after surgery. You'll come away with a practical way to recognize the meaningful changes that gradually make everyday life easier.

Read the Episode 87 article and resources

Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process.

Free 2-Week Launch

Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan

Free Top 5 Products for the First Two Weeks

Free Guide: Less Pain, More Gain

Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement

Free Top Ten Walking Tips

Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement

Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier

Resources at totalkneesuccess.com

Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle

Support the podcast

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 orthopedics 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.

Episode 86 explores why comparing yourself to other knee replacement patients can create confusion and discouragement. Michelle explains why friend stories, neighbor stories, and online posts often leave out important context such as starting strength, medical history, rehabilitation needs, goals, and surgeon guidance. This Episode also discusses why pain memories can be imperfect and why unsolicited advice is rarely a substitute for guidance from your surgeon or physical therapist.

Read the Episode 86 article and resources

Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process.

Free 2-Week Launch

Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan

Free Top 5 Products for the First Two Weeks

Free Guide: Less Pain, More Gain

Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement

Free Top Ten Walking Tips

Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement

Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier

Resources at totalkneesuccess.com

Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle

Support the podcast

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 orthopedics 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.

Episode 85 explores why common knee replacement milestones, including six weeks, three months, and one year, can be useful reference points but poor personal deadlines. Michelle explains why progress after total knee replacement varies from person to person. She also discusses why function, walking, strength, endurance, and daily activity are often more meaningful than a date on the calendar. The episode encourages listeners to consider individual progress rather than comparing themselves to standard timelines.

Read the Episode 85 article and resources

Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process.

Free 2-Week Launch

Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan

Free Top 5 Products for the First Two Weeks

Free Guide: Less Pain, More Gain

Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement

Free Top Ten Walking Tips

Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement

Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier

Resources at totalkneesuccess.com

Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle

Support the podcast

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 orthopedics 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.

Episode 84 continues the conversation from Episode 83 by introducing five more tools that may become helpful during weeks two through six after knee replacement. Michelle explains how a self-standing cane, portable car assist handle, step tracker, stretch-out strap, and nine-inch Pilates ball can support walking, exercise, and returning to everyday activities. The Episode also discusses NMES and pedal exercisers as optional tools that should be used with guidance from your rehabilitation team.

Read the Episode 84 article and resources

Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process.

Free 2-Week Launch

Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan

Free Top 5 Products for the First Two Weeks

Free Guide: Less Pain, More Gain

Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement

Free Top Ten Walking Tips

Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement

Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier

Resources at totalkneesuccess.com

Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle

Support the podcast

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 orthopedics 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.

Episode 83 focuses on five tools patients often report using the most during the first two weeks after knee replacement. Michelle explains how cold therapy, elevation, compression socks, supportive shoes that are easy to put on, and a leg lifter strap can support swelling management, comfort, safer walking, and independence. This Episode is educational and practical, helping listeners think through their home setup before surgery without turning preparation into an overwhelming shopping list.

Read the Episode 83 article and resources

Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process.

Free 2-Week Launch

Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan

Free Top 5 Products for the First Two Weeks

Free Guide: Less Pain, More Gain

Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement

Free Top Ten Walking Tips

Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement

Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier

Resources at totalkneesuccess.com

Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle

Support the podcast

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 orthopedics 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.

Episode 82 closes the prehab series by focusing on how to get ready before knee replacement so the first two weeks go better. Michelle walks through five specific areas to get ready for before surgery, including your setup, early exercises, the rhythm of the day, response to harder days, and the follow-through plan. Using Megan as an example, this Episode shows how specific preparation can make the early phase feel more familiar and easier to manage.

Read the Episode 82 article and resources

Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process.

Free 2-Week Launch

Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan

Free Top 5 Products for the First Two Weeks

Free Guide: Less Pain, More Gain

Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement

Free Top Ten Walking Tips

Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement

Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier

Resources at totalkneesuccess.com

Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle

Support the podcast

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 orthopedics 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.

Episode 81 focuses on low stamina before knee replacement and five practical steps that can help some people build a more repeatable base before surgery. Michelle walks through tracking a baseline, choosing a starting amount, building slowly, pacing the day, and supporting stamina with strength and standing tolerance. Using Megan as an example, this Episode explains how step tracking, pacing, and gradual progression can help people prepare for the early phase after surgery.

Read the Episode 81 article and resources

Step Counters

Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter

Free 2-Week Launch

Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan

Free Top 5 Products for the First Two Weeks

Free Guide: Less Pain, More Gain

Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement

Free Top Ten Walking Tips

Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement

Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier

Resources at totalkneesuccess.com

Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle

Support the podcast

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 orthopedics 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.

Episode 80 continues a four part prehab series by focusing on weak quads before knee replacement. Michelle explains how quad weakness can be true strength loss and also a problem of activation, especially when pain and swelling are involved. The Episode connects prehab strength work, movement practice, and therapist guided tools like NMES to the early phase after surgery, then previews Episode 81 on low stamina and pacing.

Read the Episode 80 article and resources

Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process.

Free 2-Week Launch

Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan

Free Top 5 Products for the First Two Weeks

Free Guide: Less Pain, More Gain

Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement

Free Top Ten Walking Tips

Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement

Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier

Resources at totalkneesuccess.com

Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle

Support the podcast

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 orthopedics 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.