Struggling with KNEE PAIN?

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This blog focus is KNEE SURGERY and can PHYSICAL THERAPY prevent it?

Knee pain is a common issue that affects millions of people, often caused by conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or past injuries. As the cartilage in the knee wears down, pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility can make everyday activities challenging. Last week we learned that physical therapy focuses on strengthening the muscles that support the knee, improving joint flexibility, and correcting movement patterns. These improvements can significantly reduce stress on the joint, easing pain and enhancing mobility.

While knee surgeries are common, it should’t be the first—or only—option.

So what do our licensed staff say about knee surgery based on years and years of experience and hundreds of patients?

Here are the TOP 5 THINGS PEOPLE SHOULD KNOW BEFORE KNEE SURGERY:
1…Physical therapy might have helped me avoid surgery. Some surgeries are inevitable and some are elective. No surgery is without risk and there is no guarantee it will completely fix the problem. (Up to 20% of total knee replacement surgery patients are unhappy with their results). Therefore, a physical therapy treatment plan property executed may not only save you time and pain, but money as well.
2…Knee pain should be addressed early, while there is a higher probability for conservative methods to repair/restore damage. The longer you wait, the more damage occurs in the joint and this leads to more complicated issues. Don’t wait until you cannot walk without pain and then schedule an appointment with a surgeon.
3…Prehab matters (prehabilitation or pre-surgery rehab). Injury, increased pain, and reduced motion can all lead to muscle deterioration due to lack of use. Generally, the goal is to strengthen the muscle groups in the affected area to improve your chances of a better outcome after your surgery. Prehab can lead to faster recovery and less risk of complications from surgery and even a delay (or cancel) the need of surgery.

“Motion, Motion, Motion! Improving motion before surgery is the best way to improve outcomes.” – Dallas PT

“Go to therapy and get in shape. It will hurt, I don’t care. You’re going to hurt regardless while waiting for surgery.” – said a surgeon to a patient 3 months prior to surgery. – Laura PT
4…Surgery isn’t a quick fix. In our “drive through” world, we sometimes expect things to happen quickly, however, surgery is not one of them. In fact, some knee replacements require a revision years later. Key contributors to that are smoking, diabetes, obesity and poor nutrition that increase the risk of infection. Without lifestyle changes, bad health habits can contribute to bad outcomes.

“You will not be back to normal in 6 weeks following knee replacement surgery, it will take a year.” – Jill PTA
5…Recovery is no joke. Most patients begin walking with assistance the day of surgery, and with dedicated rehabilitation, many return to normal activities within 6 to 12 weeks. Full recovery typically takes several months and up to a year.

“The more you bend your knee, the less I have to. And it hurts when I do it.” – Kaitlin PT

“Achieving good range of motion from the get go will avoid needing a manipulation down the road.” – Kelsey PTA

“Your HEP (home exercise program) is for life!” – Jennifer PTA
The takeaway? Don’t wait for the pain to become unbearable. Taking action early through physical therapy, weight management, and low-impact exercises like swimming or biking can protect your knees and delay surgery.

You and your knees are worth the time investment of physical therapy and an active lifestyle. Stronger muscles and better movement can help you stay active, independent, and pain-free longer.
Don’t suffer any longer with symptoms and pain that could lead to larger and more costly health issues. Schedule your appointment today with one of our highly trained PTs. See a PT first for your pain to get non-pharmacy and non-surgical help. If needed, they will guide you to the next medical treatment.