The Total Knee Success Podcast: Your Essential Resource for Navigating Total Knee Replacement – Details, episodes & analysis

In Episode 12 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, we explore how activating your parasympathetic system through intentional breathing can ease pain and calm your body after knee replacement. You’ll learn about box breathing, the physiological sigh, and other simple, evidence-based tools to help your body relax and heal.

Learn more and access additional resources at TotalKneeSuccess.com.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Medical Disclaimer The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your specific condition or care. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. This podcast is not affiliated with Michelle’s clinic or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on a product link in my show notes or at TotalKneeSuccess.com and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support the podcast and allow me to keep creating free, evidence-based content. I only share products that are commonly recommended for knee replacement and that patients have found helpful.

References

1. Zautra AJ, Fasman R, Davis MC, Craig AD. The effects of slow breathing on affective responses to pain stimuli: an experimental study. Pain. 2010;149(1):12–18.
2. Busch V, Magerl W, Kern U, Haas J, Hajak G, Eichhammer P. The effect of deep and slow breathing on pain perception, autonomic activity, and mood processing—an experimental study. Pain Med. 2012;13(2):215–228.
3. Lehrer P, Gevirtz R. Heart rate variability biofeedback: how and why does it work? Front Psychol. 2014;5:756.
4. Saoji AA, Raghavendra BR, Manjunath NK. Effects of yogic breath regulation: a narrative review of scientific evidence. J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2019;10(1):50–58.
5. Huberman JA, et al. Rapid state-shifting breathing practices for anxiety reduction. Cell Reports Medicine. 2023;4(1):100898.
6. Varvogli L, Darviri C. Stress management techniques: evidence-based procedures that reduce stress and promote health. Health Sci J. 2011;5(2):74–89.Music used in this podcast is licensed for use through Descript. All rights to the reggae track are secured via Descript’s music library.

In Episode 11 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, we bust myths #6 through #10 about healing after knee replacement. From kneeling and gym machines to ice versus heat, the treadmill, and swelling, this episode explains why these myths don’t hold up and what’s actually true instead. It finishes the Top 10 Myths series and helps listeners let go of outdated advice while focusing on what really matters. You’ll walk away with clear, practical insights that support your progress after surgery.

Learn more and access additional resources at TotalKneeSuccess.com. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Medical Disclaimer The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your specific condition or care. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. This podcast is not affiliated with Michelle's clinic or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on a product link in my show notes or at TotalKneeSuccess.com and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support the podcast and allow me to keep creating free, evidence-based content. I only share products that are commonly recommended for knee replacement and patients have found helpful.

References

1. Jette DU, Hunter SJ, Binder DS, et al. Physical therapist management of total knee arthroplasty: a clinical practice guideline. Phys Ther. 2020;100(9):1603-1631.
2. Wylde V, Artz N, Bruce J, et al. Kneeling after total knee replacement. EFORT Open Rev. 2019;4(5):460-467.
3. Nadeem S, Tucker A, Heidari N, et al. Predictors of kneeling ability after total knee arthroplasty. Arthroplasty Today. 2021;7:224-232.
4. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). OrthoInfo: Total Knee Replacement. “Kneeling is sometimes uncomfortable, but it is not harmful.” Updated guidance; accessed 2025.
5. Zimmer Biomet. Your Guide to Total Joint Surgery. Patient education booklet noting kneeling may be uncomfortable for a year or more; accessed 2025.
6. Stryker Orthopaedics. Patient materials for the Triathlon Knee system referencing activities such as kneeling in the garden; accessed 2025.
7. DePuy Synthes [duh-POY SIN-theez] (Johnson & Johnson). Patient information for total knee replacement; no kneeling prohibition stated; accessed 2025.
8. Smith+Nephew. Patient education materials for total knee implants; no kneeling prohibition stated; accessed 2025.
9. Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Total Knee Arthroplasty Rehabilitation Protocol. Institutional guideline recommending criteria-based progression to resistance machines; accessed 2025.
10. The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Total Knee Arthroplasty Clinical Practice Guideline. Criteria for stationary bike initiation and later treadmill use; accessed 2025.
11. Liu C, Zhang Y, et al. Effect of continuous cryotherapy versus traditional cold application after total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Orthop Surg Res. 2023;18:67. Music used in this podcast is licensed for use through Descript. All rights to the reggae track are secured via Descript’s music library.

In Episode 2 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, we tackle one of the most common questions after knee replacement surgery: "When will I stop limping?" Discover why limping can persist after surgery, the science behind gait retraining, and practical, evidence-based strategies to help you walk with confidence again. We share step-by-step tips on weight bearing, using assistive devices correctly, correcting gait patterns, strengthening key muscles, and practicing in different environments. Whether you’re preparing for surgery or deep into recovery, this episode offers actionable advice to help you break old habits, improve your walking, and regain your independence. Tune in for expert insights, encouragement, and resources to support your total knee success Learn more and access additional resources at TotalKneeSuccess.com.

Educational Purpose Only

Total Knee Success provides educational information on total knee replacement, rehabilitation, and related topics. All content—whether on this website, the podcast, or linked resources—is intended for general educational purposes only. It is not designed to diagnose, treat, or replace individualized medical care. You should always consult your physician, surgeon, or physical therapist before making health decisions. Do not disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of material found here.

No Professional or Academic Relationship Accessing this site or listening to the podcast does not create a physical therapist–patient relationship or a faculty–student relationship. Information is provided in a general context only and should not be considered personalized professional advice.

Affiliate Disclosure This site and podcast may contain affiliate links. Total Knee Success participates in affiliate programs, including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Transparency matters—you should assume that links on this site or podcast may be affiliate links.

References

1. American Physical Therapy Association. Clinical practice guideline: Physical therapist management of total knee arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2020;100(9):1603-1631. doi:10.1093/ptj/pzaa099
2. Mont MA, Beaver WB, Dysart SH, Barrington JW, Del Gaizo DJ. Local infiltration analgesia in total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial. J Arthroplasty. 2018;33(1):90-95. doi:10.1016/j.arth.2017.08.017
3. Wylde V, Rooker J, Halliday L, Blom A. Acute postoperative pain at rest after hip and knee arthroplasty: severity, sensory qualities and impact. Musculoskeletal Care. 2011;9(4):201-209. doi:10.1002/msc.204
4. Smith TO, Chester R, Clark A, Donell ST. Cross-sectional study into peri-operative practices surrounding total knee replacement surgery in the UK. Knee. 2012;19(5):365-369. doi:10.1016/j.knee.2011.06.010
5. The Knee Journal. Reduced knee flexion in TKA patients: carryover of preoperative gait patterns. Knee. 2021.
6. McClelland JA, Webster KE, Feller JA. Gait analysis of patients following total knee replacement: a review. PMCID: PMC3754839.
7. Music used in this podcast is licensed for use through Descript. All rights to the reggae track are secured via Descript’s music library.

In Episode 1 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, we explore two common post-total knee replacement issues: pain and swelling. We share five effective tips to manage these, such as applying cold packs, elevating the leg, wearing compression stockings, balancing rest with gentle activity, and ensuring good sleep. We also highlight the importance of monitoring progress and recognizing when to contact your healthcare team for support. Future episodes will focus on gait retraining and advanced sleep strategies.

Learn more and access additional resources at TotalKneeSuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your surgeon, nutritionist, dietician, therapist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your specific condition or care. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. This podcast is not affiliated with Michelle's clinic or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on a product link in my show notes or at TotalKneeSuccess.com and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support the podcast and allow me to keep creating free, evidence-based content. I only share products that are commonly recommended for knee replacement and that patients have found helpful.

References

1. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Management of Osteoarthritis of the Knee (Non-Arthroplasty), Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline. AAOS; 2021.
2. American Physical Therapy Association. Clinical practice guideline: Physical therapist management of total knee arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2020;100(9):1603-1631. doi:10.1093/ptj/pzaa099
3. Kehlet H, Dahl JB. Anaesthesia, surgery, and challenges in postoperative recovery. Lancet. 2003;362(9399):1921-1928. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(03)14966-5
4. Smith TO, Chester R, Clark A, Donell ST. Cross-sectional study into peri-operative practices surrounding total knee replacement surgery in the UK. Knee. 2012;19(5):365-369. doi:10.1016/j.knee.2011.06.010
5. Mont MA, Beaver WB, Dysart SH, Barrington JW, Del Gaizo DJ. Local infiltration analgesia in total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial. J Arthroplasty. 2018;33(1):90-95. doi:10.1016/j.arth.2017.08.017
6. Wylde V, Rooker J, Halliday L, Blom A. Acute postoperative pain at rest after hip and knee arthroplasty: severity, sensory qualities and impact. Musculoskeletal Care. 2011;9(4):201-209. doi:10.1002/msc.204
7. Music used in this podcast is licensed for use through Descript. All rights to the reggae track are secured via Descript’s music library.

Show Notes – Total Knee Success Podcast Trailer

Have you recently had a total knee replacement or are you preparing for surgery? Are you wondering what recovery will really be like?

You’re in the right place. The Total Knee Success Podcast is your trusted resource for:

• Practical tips to manage pain and swelling after knee replacement
• Strategies to start walking naturally again and rebuild mobility
• Physical therapy insights that speed recovery and improve confidence
• Guidance on bending, exercise, scar healing, sleep, and more
• What to expect before and after surgery—so you can move forward with clarity

Hosted by Michelle Losurdo, PT, DPT, OCS, Cert DN—an experienced, board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist—this podcast brings you evidence-based guidance, real-world advice, and encouragement for every stage of recovery.

Whether you’re preparing, in the thick of rehab, or looking ahead to long-term success, this show will help you make the most of your knee replacement journey.

Subscribe today so you don’t miss our first full episode!

Learn more and access additional resources at TotalKneeSuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your surgeon, nutritionist, dietician, therapist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your specific condition or care. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. This podcast is not affiliated with Michelle's clinic or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on a product link in my show notes or at TotalKneeSuccess.com and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support the podcast and allow me to keep creating free, evidence-based content. I only share products that are commonly recommended for knee replacement and that patients have found helpful.

Music used in this podcast is licensed for use through Descript. All rights to the reggae track are secured via Descript’s music library.

In Episode 10 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, we break down the first five myths about healing after knee replacement. From the old “no pain, no gain” idea to concerns about range of motion, CPM machines, walking, and stairs, this episode explains what the research actually says. Listeners will learn why walking alone isn’t enough and why going downstairs is often harder than going up — so you can avoid the common myths that add worry to your healing. Learn more and access additional resources at TotalKneeSuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your specific condition or care. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. This podcast is not affiliated with Michelle's clinic or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on a product link in my show notes or at TotalKneeSuccess.com and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support the podcast and allow me to keep creating free, evidence-based content. I only share products that are commonly recommended for knee replacement and that patients have found helpful.

References

1. Jette DU, Hunter SJ, et al. Clinical practice guideline: Physical therapist management of total knee arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2020;100(9):1603-1631.
2. Baker PN, et al. Pain and function outcomes following primary TKA: registry data. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2012;94(11):990-996.
3. Rice DA, McNair PJ. Quadriceps arthrogenic muscle inhibition: mechanisms and treatment perspectives. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2010;40(3):250-266.
4. Issa K, et al. Does timing of manipulation under anesthesia affect ROM after primary TKA? J Knee Surg. 2014;27(3):195-199.
5. Werner BC, et al. The incidence of manipulation under anesthesia after TKA. J Arthroplasty. 2015;30(12):1962-1965.
6. Harvey LA, et al. Continuous passive motion following total knee arthroplasty. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014;(2):CD004260.
7. Minns Lowe CJ, et al. Effectiveness of physiotherapy exercise after knee replacement: systematic review. BMJ. 2007;335:812.
8. Artz N, et al. Effectiveness of physiotherapy exercise following total knee replacement: systematic review & meta-analysis. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2015;16:15.
9. Skoffer B, Dalgas U. Exercise as treatment in knee OA/TKA patients. Scand J Med Sci Sports. 2012;22(6):e119–e127.
10. Villadsen A, et al. Intensive rehab after TKA improves function. Arthritis Care Res. 2014;66(12):1856–1866.
11. Taylor WR, Duda GN, Bergmann G, et al. Peak knee contact forces during stair ascent and descent in vivo. J Orthop Res. 2012;30(3):408-415.
12. Kutzner I, Heinlein B, Graichen F, et al. In vivo knee joint loading in ADLs. J Biomech. 2010;43(11):2164-2173.
13. Andriacchi TP, et al. Analysis of stair ascent and descent motions. Clin Biomech. 2006;21(5):467-474.
14. Music used in this podcast is licensed for use through Descript. All rights to the reggae track are secured via Descript’s music library.

In Episode 9 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, we explore the step-by-step process of regaining strength after knee replacement. You’ll learn why quadriceps weakness happens, how swelling affects muscle activation, and how healing timelines connect to strengthening goals. We also highlight a “minimal quad program” of research-backed exercises you should not skip, plus red flags that tell you when to pause and call your care team.

Learn more and access additional resources at TotalKneeSuccess.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Medical Disclaimer The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your specific condition or care. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. This podcast is not affiliated with Michelle's clinic or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on a product link in my show notes or at TotalKneeSuccess.com and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support the podcast and allow me to keep creating free, evidence-based content. I only share products that are commonly recommended for knee replacement recovery and that patients have found helpful.

References

1. Mizner RL, Petterson SC, Snyder-Mackler L. Quadriceps strength and functional recovery after TKA. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2005;87(5):1047–1053.
2. Rice DA, McNair PJ. Arthrogenic muscle inhibition of the quadriceps: mechanisms & treatment. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2010;40(3):250–266.
3. Goodpaster BH, et al. Loss of skeletal muscle strength/mass/quality in older adults. J Gerontol A. 2006;61(10):1059–1064.
4. American College of Sports Medicine. Progression models in resistance training for healthy adults. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2009;41(3):687–708.
5. Jette DU, et al. APTA Clinical Practice Guideline: Physical therapist management of TKA. Phys Ther. 2020;100(9):1603–1631.
6. Brigham & Women’s Hospital. Total Knee Arthroplasty Protocol. 2022.
7. Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Total Knee Arthroplasty Clinical Practice Guideline. 2019.
8. Skou ST, et al. Early and late strength recovery after TKA. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2018;476(6):1131–1141.
9. Mizner RL, et al. Quadriceps strength and activation failure in patients with TKA. J Orthop Res. 2005;23(5):1083–1090.
10. Villadsen A, et al. Intensive rehabilitation after TKA improves function. Arthritis Care Res. 2014;66(12):1856–1866.
11. Minns Lowe CJ, et al. Effectiveness of physiotherapy exercise after knee replacement: systematic review. BMJ. 2007;335:812.
12. Music used in this podcast is licensed for use through Descript. All rights to the reggae track are secured via Descript’s music library.

In Episode 8 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, we explore why pain may linger beyond the first few weeks after knee replacement. You’ll learn what’s normal, what’s not, and how to spot red flags that need medical attention. We’ll talk about common reasons for lingering pain, how to recognize patterns of progress, and strategies for easing discomfort - from pacing activity to calming the nervous system with simple breathing techniques. You’ll also hear how mindset and small daily choices can make a big difference in long-term outcomes.

Learn more and access additional resources at TotalKneeSuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your specific condition or care. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. This podcast is not affiliated with Michelle's clinic or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on a product link in my show notes or at TotalKneeSuccess.com and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support the podcast and allow me to keep creating free, evidence-based content. I only share products that are commonly recommended for knee replacement recovery and that patients have found helpful.

References

1. Jette DU, Hunter SJ, et al. Clinical practice guideline: Physical therapist management of total knee arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2020;100(9):1603-1631. doi:10.1093/ptj/pzaa099
2. Wylde V, et al. Persistent pain after joint replacement: prevalence, sensory qualities, and impact. Rheumatology. 2011;50(2):215–221.
3. Beswick AD, et al. What proportion of patients report long-term pain after hip or knee replacement? BMJ Open. 2012;2:e000435.
4. Baker PN, et al. Pain and function outcomes following primary TKA: registry data. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2012;94(11):990–996.
5. Lenguerrand E, et al. Risk factors for persistent pain after knee replacement: multicenter study. BMJ Open. 2016;6(12):e012166.
6. Wylde V, Blom AW. The failure of survivorship. Bone Joint J. 2019;101-B(6):629–631.
7. Skou ST, et al. Predictors of pain after total knee arthroplasty. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2018;476(6):1131–1141.
8. Lewis GN, Rice DA, McNair PJ, Kluger M. Predictors of persistent pain after TKA. Pain. 2015;156(10):1930–1940.
9. Liu SS, et al. Predictors of prolonged pain after TKA. Anesth Analg. 2012;115(5):1066–1073.
10. Zautra AJ, Fasman R, Davis MC, Craig AD. The effects of slow breathing on affective responses to pain stimuli: an experimental study. Pain. 2010;149(1):12–18.
11. Busch V, Magerl W, Kern U, Haas J, Hajak G, Eichhammer P. The effect of deep and slow breathing on pain perception, autonomic activity, and mood processing—an experimental study. Pain Med. 2012;13(2):215–228.
12. Lehrer P, Gevirtz R. Heart rate variability biofeedback: how and why does it work? Front Psychol. 2014;5:756.
13. Music used in this podcast is licensed for use through Descript. All rights to the reggae track are secured via Descript’s music library.

In Episode 7 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, we focus on how to safely return to daily activities after knee replacement. You’ll learn how to pace your energy with the SET approach, adapt common home tasks, manage stairs and driving, and gradually reintroduce work, chores, and hobbies. We also explore kneeling, exercise momentum, and the signs that mean it’s time to call your care team. Whether you’re early in healing or further along, this episode gives you practical tools and encouragement for getting back to the things you enjoy most. Learn more and access additional resources at TotalKneeSuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your specific condition or care. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. This podcast is not affiliated with Michelle's clinic or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on a product link in my show notes or at TotalKneeSuccess.com and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support the podcast and allow me to keep creating free, evidence-based content. I only share products that are commonly recommended for knee replacement recovery and that patients have found helpful.

References

1. Jette DU, Hunter SJ, et al. Clinical practice guideline: Physical therapist management of total knee arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2020;100(9):1603-1631. doi:10.1093/ptj/pzaa099
2. Peters MCWM, et al. Return to daily activities, work, and sports after total knee arthroplasty. Acta Orthop. 2024;95:353-360. doi:10.2340/17453674.2024.95.353
3. Giannoudis V, et al. Brake reaction time and return to driving after knee arthroplasty: a systematic review. Accid Anal Prev. 2021;153:106025. doi:10.1016/j.aap.2021.106025
4. Giannoudis V, et al. Predictors for return to driving after THA and TKA. J Clin Med. 2025;14(8):2536. doi:10.3390/jcm14082536
5. Pasqualini I, et al. Sports and return to work after total knee arthroplasty. Joints. 2023;11(4):217-226. doi:10.1055/s-0043-1777668
6. Kangas P, et al. Return to work following hip or knee arthroplasty: a systematic review. J Occup Rehabil. 2024. doi:10.1007/s10926-024-10147-6
7. Wylde V, et al. Kneeling after total knee replacement: a systematic review. EFORT Open Rev. 2019;4(5):460-467. doi:10.1302/2058-5241.4.180047
8. Nadeem S, et al. Surgery-related predictors of kneeling ability after total knee arthroplasty. Arthroplast Today. 2021;7:224-232. doi:10.1016/j.artd.2020.12.004
9. Kutzner I, Heinlein B, Graichen F, et al. Loading of the knee joint during activities of daily living measured in vivo in five subjects. J Biomech. 2010;43(11):2164-2173. doi:10.1016/j.jbiomech.2010.03.046
10. Taylor WR, Duda GN, Bergmann G, et al. Peak knee contact forces during stair ascent and descent in vivo. J Orthop Res. 2012;30(3):408-415. doi:10.1002/jor.21527
11. Music used in this podcast is licensed for use through Descript. All rights to the reggae track are secured via Descript’s music library.

In Episode 6 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, we focus on managing expectations with your surgeon and therapy team. You’ll learn how to ask the right questions at follow-ups, talk openly about pain and swelling, and recognize what’s normal versus what needs medical attention. We’ll also cover how to keep your providers aligned, embrace your role as decision-maker, and build a strong therapeutic alliance. With real-life examples and research-based tips, this episode shows how better communication leads to smoother, more confident healing.

Learn more and access additional resources at TotalKneeSuccess.com.

Medical Disclaimer

The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your specific condition or care. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. This podcast is not affiliated with Michelle's clinic or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on a product link in my show notes or at TotalKneeSuccess.com and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support the podcast and allow me to keep creating free, evidence-based content. I only share products that are commonly recommended for knee replacement recovery and that patients have found helpful.

References

1. American Physical Therapy Association. Clinical practice guideline: Physical therapist management of total knee arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2020;100(9):1603-1631. doi:10.1093/ptj/pzaa099
2. Wylde V, Rooker J, Halliday L, Blom A. Acute postoperative pain at rest after hip and knee arthroplasty: severity, sensory qualities and impact. Musculoskeletal Care. 2011;9(4):201-209. doi:10.1002/msc.204
3. Mont MA, Beaver WB, Dysart SH, Barrington JW, Del Gaizo DJ. Local infiltration analgesia in total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial. J Arthroplasty. 2018;33(1):90-95. doi:10.1016/j.arth.2017.08.017
4. Tilbury C, Haanstra TM, Leichtenberg CS, et al. Unfulfilled expectations after total hip and knee arthroplasty surgery: there is a need for better preoperative patient information and education. J Arthroplasty. 2016;31(10):2139–2145. doi:10.1016/j.arth.2016.02.061
5. Mancuso CA, Jout J, Salvati EA, Sculco TP. Patients’ expectations and satisfaction with total hip arthroplasty. J Arthroplasty. 2009;24(4):502–508. doi:10.1016/j.arth.2008.02.005
6. Dauty M, Genty M, Ribinik P. Interdisciplinary rehabilitation after total knee replacement: functional outcomes. Ann Phys Rehabil Med. 2014;57(9-10):563–570. doi:10.1016/j.rehab.2014.08.004
7. Kennedy DM, Stratford PW, Riddle DL, Hanna SE, Gollish JD. Assessing recovery and establishing prognosis following total knee replacement. Phys Ther. 2008;88(1):22–32. doi:10.2522/ptj.20070051
8. Music used in this podcast is licensed for use through Descript. All rights to the reggae track are secured via Descript’s music library.