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.

Read the Episode 29 article and resources

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

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.

Read the Episode 28 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

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.

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.

Read the Episode 27 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

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.

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.

Read the Episode 26 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.

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.

Read the Episode 25 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

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.

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.

Read the Episode 24 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.

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.

Read the Episode 23 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.

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.

Read the Episode 22 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.

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.

Read the Episode 21 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.

In Episode 20 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explains what really matters once physical therapy ends: consistency, confidence, and connection. She shares how regular exercise sustains strength, why “use it or lose it” is simply how the body works, and how to handle fear and doubt using practical, research-backed strategies. Listeners learn simple ways to keep training safely at home, when to progress, and how to return to favorite activities responsibly.

Read the Episode 20 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.