We provide high quality, cost effective health care and related services that improve the health status of people in central Iowa. The decision to undergo joint replacement surgery is individual. The process of recovery is a team effort on the part of the patient, physician, physical therapist, occupational therapist, nursing staff and patient's family. Physical therapists teach patients to do as much for themselves as possible.
Physical therapists have three goals for total knee replacement patients.
First, therapists help the patient get back to an activity level similar to what was available prior to the surgery. In some cases, the activity level may actually be better than the patient experienced prior to surgery. This involves the patient establishing a proper weight-bearing status and a smooth gait pattern. Typically, this means using crutches or a walker for four to six weeks. Second, physical therapists help restore range of motion to the knee.