Explore every episode of the podcast The Total Knee Success Podcast: Your Essential Resource for Navigating Total Knee Replacement
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Episode 118: Exercise After Knee Replacement: Building a Long-Term Routine (Strength, Walking, Balance, and a Plan You Can Keep Using) | 23 Oct 2026 | 00:15:47 | |
What should you keep doing after physical therapy ends? In Episode 118 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explains how knee motion, strengthening, walking, balance, and aerobic exercise can fit into a long-term routine after knee replacement. Read Episode 118 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Learn ways to choose activities that support your goals, consider fitness classes or a personal trainer, and adjust your routine as your abilities and schedule change. Find the Total Knee Success Insider newsletter and Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement in the episode notes. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan 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 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 117: Six Months After Knee Replacement: What to Work on Next (Strength, Walking, and the Activities You Want Back) | 20 Oct 2026 | 00:12:00 | |
At six months after knee replacement, you can still improve strength, endurance, balance, and the movements needed for activities you enjoy. In Episode 117, Michelle explains how to identify what is still challenging and gradually build toward goals such as longer outings, stairs, hiking, gardening, getting down to the floor, and outdoor cycling. Read Episode 117 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter She discusses the value of reassessment, continued exercise, and practicing the activity itself, with guidance from research and the 2026 physical therapy clinical practice guidelines. This episode begins the series Protecting Your Progress for the Long Term. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan 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 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 116: Walking on Hills, Grass, and Uneven Ground After Knee Replacement (What Builds Walking Control Beyond Level Ground) | 17 Oct 2026 | 00:13:46 | |
Walking across your kitchen is one thing. Walking on grass, loose gravel, uneven sidewalks, or hills can feel quite different after knee replacement. In Episode 116, Michelle explains what changes when the ground is no longer level and what contributes to better walking control. Read Episode 116 article & resources Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement You'll hear how knee strength and movement, balance, and coordination work together on changing surfaces, what researchers have learned about uphill and downhill walking, and why your walking device may be useful outdoors even if you no longer need it indoors. This episode completes the four-part Total Knee Success walking series. Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan 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 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 115: Curbs and Stairs After Knee Replacement (How to Handle Going Up, Coming Down, and Real-World Steps) | 13 Oct 2026 | 00:15:01 | |
In Episode 115, Michelle explains why curbs and stairs can feel more demanding than level walking after knee replacement. Going up requires lifting your body, while coming down requires controlling the lowering. Read Episode 115 article & resources Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement The episode covers a single curb with a walker or cane, followed by stairs with a rail and cane using step-to and alternating-foot patterns. You’ll also hear how strength, knee motion, balance, step height, and fatigue influence support choices. This is Part Three of the four-part walking series; Episode 116 will cover hills, grass, gravel, and uneven ground. Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan 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 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 114: Walking With a Cane After Knee Replacement (Which Hand, What Pattern, and When You May Be Ready) | 09 Oct 2026 | 00:12:54 | |
In Episode 114 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explains how to recognize readiness for a cane after knee replacement and how to use it with better coordination. You’ll have a better idea of cane fit, hand placement, the cane–surgical leg–other leg sequence, and supported practice along a counter. Read Episode 114 article & resources Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Michelle also explains how step length, balance, fatigue, and your walking pattern help guide decisions about using less support. Episode 115 continues with curbs and stairs. Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan 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 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 113: Walking With a Walker After Knee Replacement (How to Use Support Without Losing Your Walking Pattern) | 06 Oct 2026 | 00:14:44 | |
In Episode 113 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explains how to use a walker after knee replacement while working toward a smoother, more natural walking pattern. You’ll have a better idea of walker types and fit, which leg steps first, and how to turn, sit, and stand with support. Read Episode 113 article & resources Michelle also explains what to notice as your leg control improves and which factors help guide readiness for a cane. This episode begins a four-part walking series. Episode 114 continues with using a cane, followed by stairs and curbs in Episode 115. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan 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 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 112: The Knee Replacement Costs Nobody Warns You About, Part 2 (Help at Home, Prescriptions, Equipment, and Therapy) | 02 Oct 2026 | 00:14:09 | |
Diane is home after knee replacement, and the expenses continue in smaller pieces. Michelle follows her through the cost of help at home, prescriptions, equipment, therapy and follow-up visits, and medical bills that arrive later. Read Episode 112 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Part Two explains how to identify repeating expenses, compare a provider bill with an explanation of benefits, and keep the charges you have already paid in one place. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan 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 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 111: The Knee Replacement Costs Nobody Warns You About, Part 1 (Before Surgery and on Surgery Day) | 29 Sep 2026 | 00:15:56 | |
In Episode 111, Michelle follows Diane as she sorts through costs that can appear before knee replacement and on surgery day. Diane checks blood work and medical-visit copays, possible prehab, equipment, hospital and anesthesia estimates, insurance deductibles, federal billing protections, and time away from work. Read Episode 111 article & resources Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Michelle explains which questions to ask the surgical team, hospital, insurer, and employer so the money side feels less like one large unknown. This is Part One of a two-part series. Episode 112 continues with expenses that may appear after you return home. This episode is educational and does not replace medical, insurance, financial, or legal advice. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement 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 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 110: Three Surprisingly Useful Products After Knee Replacement (Small Purchases That Solve Annoying Problems) | 25 Sep 2026 | 00:08:03 | |
After knee replacement, little problems can interrupt an otherwise ordinary day. Laura’s appointment questions were scattered, lunch was stuck on the kitchen counter while she used her walker, and her cane kept falling when she sat down. Read Episode 110 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter In this episode, Michelle follows Laura through three products that helped: a medical planner, a walker tray, and a self-standing cane. Hear what changed for Laura and decide whether any of these ideas would make your day easier. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement 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 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 109: Five Products You May Not Need After Knee Replacement | 22 Sep 2026 | 00:16:22 | |
Bruce has plenty of friends and an expanding knee replacement shopping list. Michelle follows his choices through five purchases he may be able to skip: a major bathroom renovation, an adjustable bed, a circulating cold machine, a CPM machine, and specialized heel-slide equipment. Read Episode 109 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Hear simpler alternatives, broad U.S. cost comparisons, and research on cold therapy and routine CPM use. Read the show notes for sources and home-equipment guidance. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement 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 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 108: Carrying After Knee Replacement (Five Questions to Ask) | 18 Sep 2026 | 00:11:16 | |
In Episode 108, Michelle follows Carmen as she brings an overnight bag and a delivery box into her home after knee replacement. Five simple questions help listeners think about the item, what their hands need to do, whether they can see where they are going, where they are taking it, and whether carrying it changes the way they walk. Michelle also covers walkers, carts, stairs, smaller trips, lifting restrictions, and signs that it is time to stop and change the plan. Read Episode 108 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Michelle also covers walkers, carts, stairs, smaller trips, lifting restrictions, and signs that it is time to stop and change the plan. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement 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 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 107: Reducing Fall risk After Knee Replacement (Using the CDC STEADI Framework) | 15 Sep 2026 | 00:13:25 | |
In Episode 107, Michelle explains the CDC STEADI framework through Ellen’s experience six months after knee replacement. After two close calls, Ellen uses three screening questions, records what happened, and receives an evaluation focused on the factors that affected her. Read Episode 107 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter The episode shows how those findings lead to specific changes at home and realistic physical therapy activities. Listeners also receive five simple questions for checking floors, lighting, support, turning space, and frequently used items in their own homes. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement 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 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 106: Why Balance Can Still Feel Off After Knee Replacement (What Strength Alone Does Not Fix) | 11 Sep 2026 | 00:11:56 | |
In Episode 106, Michelle explains why balance can still require more care even as strength improves after knee replacement. Through James’s story, she describes turning, uneven ground, dim lighting, age-related changes in vision, the additional attention balance may require with age, and fatigue. Read Episode 106 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter She also explains what details to share with a physical therapist or healthcare provider and when a new or sudden balance change requires medical evaluation. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement 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 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 105: Getting Up After a Fall (What to Check Before You Try to Stand) | 08 Sep 2026 | 00:12:27 | |
In Episode 105, Michelle explains what to assess after a fall before trying to stand. Marilyn’s story shows why dizziness, wrist pain, and a possible head impact call for help. Michelle uses guidance from the National Institute on Aging and CDC to explain when to remain down, what the published floor-rise sequence includes, and why people with a knee replacement should practice their individual strategy under supervision. Read Episode 105 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter The episode also covers access to a phone or alert device, the helper’s role, and when a fall deserves a broader risk assessment. Updated for 2026! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement 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 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 104: Getting Back on a Bicycle After Knee Replacement What You Need Before You Ride Indoors or Outside | 05 Sep 2026 | 00:15:27 | |
In Episode 104, Michelle explains how to progress from stationary cycling to outdoor riding after knee replacement. Through David’s story, she covers the first full pedal revolution, saddle height, cadence, resistance, spinning versus grinding, upright and recumbent bikes, trainers, flat and clipless pedals, mounting, starting, braking, turning, gears, hills, e-bikes, and choosing a first outdoor route. Read Episode 104 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Listeners will learn why comfortable pedaling is only one part of being ready to ride outside and how bike handling, balance, and a person’s response help shape the next step. You might like this Stable Trainer. I love this cushioned seat (saddle) cover, and here's the easily mounted phone holder style I use on my bicycle. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement 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 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 103: Hiking After Knee Replacement (How to Prepare for Hills, Uneven Ground, and Longer Distances) | 01 Sep 2026 | 00:16:21 | |
In Episode 103, Michelle explains how to prepare for hiking after knee replacement. She shows how distance, elevation gain, terrain, recent trail reports, weather, and route type can help you understand what a hike will require. Read Episode 103 article & resources - including hiking tools Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Michelle also covers uphill and downhill demands, uneven ground, footwear, trekking poles, monitoring your response, and adjusting one part of the next outing when possible. Through Carol’s story, listeners can see how someone might move from neighborhood walking to a first maintained trail while keeping a more challenging hike on the list. 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 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 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 102: Flying After Knee Replacement (Airports, Airplanes, and Blood-Clot Precautions) | 28 Aug 2026 | 00:17:21 | |
In Episode 102, Michelle explains what to consider when flying after knee replacement, including the parts of the travel day that can be more demanding than the flight itself. She discusses when to talk with your surgeon about flying, blood-clot precautions, airport walking and assistance, security, seating, luggage, movement, hydration, and planning for what happens after you land. Read Episode 102 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Michelle shares practical ways to make the airport and airplane easier to navigate while protecting some energy for the people and activities waiting at your destination. If you have a trip coming up, this is an episode you may want to hear before you book your flight or start packing. 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 Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com 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 101: Road Trips After Knee Replacement (How to Plan the Drive and Still Enjoy the Reason You’re Going) | 25 Aug 2026 | 00:15:04 | |
Episode 101 follows Dave, a fictional traveler whose story is based on situations people face after knee replacement. Eight weeks after a left total knee replacement, he and his wife take a multi-day summer road trip from Indiana to national parks out west. Read Episode 101 article & resources Product ideas for easier travel after knee replacement Michelle covers driving readiness, prolonged sitting, movement stops, swelling, medication, compression, luggage, accessible lodging, blood-clot precautions, and planning for the arrival so the trip still leaves room to enjoy the destination. Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter 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 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 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 100: Getting Back to Golf After Knee Replacement (Timelines, Training, and a Gradual Return to the Course) | 21 Aug 2026 | 00:13:17 | |
Episode 100 is for golfers who want to return to the game after total knee replacement. Michelle reviews typical return timelines and explains why surgeon clearance, strength, weight shifting, balance, endurance, and rotational movement all influence readiness. Read Episode 100 article & resources Thank you for listening to 100 episodes! Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle The Episode follows a gradual progression from putting at home to chipping, partial swings, controlled range sessions, a short outing, and eventually a complete round. It also explains how a golf-aware physical therapist and a golf teaching professional can help with different parts of the return. SuperStroke Golf Ball Pick Up Tool Josongslax Telescopic Golf Ball Retriever Other Resources: Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Free Guide: Less Pain, More Gain Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Resources at totalkneesuccess.com 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 99: Returning to the Gym After Knee Replacement (How to Rebuild Strength Without Guessing What Is Safe) | 18 Aug 2026 | 00:18:15 | |
Episode 99 explains how to move from formal physical therapy into independent gym training after knee replacement. Michelle discusses cardiovascular equipment, machines, free weights, leg strengthening, balance work, and how load, range, and speed change an exercise. Read Episode 99 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter The Episode also explains how to begin with a small program, monitor swelling and stiffness, and progress without changing too many variables at once. Listeners will learn why a repeatable program is often more useful than an aggressive first workout. 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 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 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 98: Carrying and Playing With Grandchildren After Knee Replacement (How to Lift, Hold, and Move With More Control) | 14 Aug 2026 | 00:14:24 | |
Episode 98 explains how carrying and playing with grandchildren combines lifting, balance, walking, turning, floor transfers, and reacting to unpredictable movement. Read Episode 98 article & resources Get the free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Michelle discusses safer starting positions, keeping a child close, modifying floor play, and deciding when stairs or heavier lifting require more preparation. The Episode also offers ways to remain involved and affectionate when carrying is not yet a safe choice. Listeners will learn how to treat the activity as a progression rather than a single milestone. 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 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 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 97: Getting Back to Gardening After Knee Replacement (How to Bend, Kneel, Lift, and Work Without Overdoing It) | 11 Aug 2026 | 00:15:45 | |
Episode 97 opens the four-part Returning to Meaningful Activities series with a practical guide to gardening after knee replacement. Michelle explains how kneeling, bending, lifting, carrying, balance, uneven ground, and time in one position can be reintroduced in stages. The Episode also covers raised beds, stable supports, long-handled tools, smaller loads, position changes, and signs that a gardening session may have exceeded your current capacity. Listeners will learn how to adapt the activity without treating gardening as an all-or-nothing goal. Read the Episode 97 article and resources Gardening Tools for Easier Bending, Kneeling, and Carrying Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter 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 Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com 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 96: Getting Down on the Floor and Back Up Again (One of the Most Important Skills Nobody Teaches) | 07 Aug 2026 | 00:15:38 | |
Episode 96 explains why getting down to the floor and standing again can remain difficult after knee replacement. Michelle discusses the roles of knee motion, lower-body strength, balance, arm support, and movement sequencing, then describes several general floor-transfer methods that can be adapted to different abilities. The Episode also explains how task-specific practice and backward chaining may be used to build the skill in smaller parts. It closes by distinguishing a planned floor transfer from the decisions required after an actual fall. Read the Episode 96 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process. 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 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 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 95: Getting In and Out of a Low Car (Why This Feels So Awkward and How to Make It Easier) | 04 Aug 2026 | 00:14:08 | |
Episode 95 explains why getting into and out of a low car can feel awkward after knee replacement. Michelle discusses seat height, hip and knee mechanics, vehicle design, and a practical sit-first transfer approach. The episode also covers differences among sedans, crossovers, SUVs, and minivans, along with how clinicians may break the transfer into smaller skills to improve control and reduce unnecessary twisting. Read the Episode 95 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter 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 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 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 94: Why Going Down Stairs Is Harder After Knee Replacement (And How to Improve It Safely) | 31 Jul 2026 | 00:11:53 | |
Episode 94 explains why going down stairs is often more difficult than going up after knee replacement. Michelle discusses the role of quadriceps strength, eccentric control, balance, and coordination in stair descent, and outlines examples of approaches used in rehabilitation settings. The episode also highlights general considerations related to readiness for stair practice and emphasizes the importance of guidance from a physical therapist or surgeon. Read the Episode 94 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process. 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 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 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 93: Why Is Kneeling So Difficult After Knee Replacement? (What the Research Says and a Step-by-Step Way to Regain It) | 28 Jul 2026 | 00:16:12 | |
Episode 93 explains why kneeling can remain difficult after knee replacement even when walking and other activities are improving. Michelle separates pain from surface pressure, incision numbness, stiffness, and fear of damaging the implant. She reviews the published five-week graded kneeling protocol by Wallace and Berger and explains how to progress from soft to firmer surfaces after receiving surgeon or physical therapist clearance and ensuring the incision is fully healed. The Episode also recognizes physical therapist John O’Halloran for his research contributions, clinical expertise, and commitment to improving real-life function after knee replacement. Read the Episode 93 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter 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 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 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 92: The Last 10% After Knee Replacement (When You Finally Start Thinking About Your Life Again) | 25 Jul 2026 | 00:17:54 | |
Episode 92 explores why many people describe themselves as “ninety percent better” after knee replacement while still feeling that something is unfinished. Michelle explains the differences between pain relief, strength, endurance, movement quality, participation, and the expectation that an artificial knee should feel completely natural. The Episode offers a practical way to identify whether the remaining limitation needs training, repeated practice, professional assessment, or a more realistic benchmark. It also explains which changes should prompt a conversation with a surgeon or another qualified healthcare professional. Read the Episode 92 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter 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 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 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 91: Why Your Knee Replacement Feels Worse Some Days (When One Bad Day Doesn’t Mean Something Is Wrong) | 22 Jul 2026 | 00:18:12 | |
In Episode 91 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explains why progress after knee replacement is rarely a straight line. Many people experience good days followed by days when the knee suddenly feels stiffer, more swollen, or more painful, leaving them worried they've gone backward. Michelle discusses the most common reasons these temporary setbacks occur, how to respond without overreacting or pushing too hard, and why looking at long-term trends is much more meaningful than judging your progress by a single difficult day. She also reviews warning signs that deserve prompt medical attention and offers practical strategies to help you confidently navigate the normal ups and downs that often occur after knee replacement. Read the Episode 91 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter 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 Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Question for the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle 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 90: Months 4 to 12 After Knee Replacement: What Nobody Tells You (The Months That Surprise Almost Everyone) | 18 Jul 2026 | 00:15:53 | |
In Episode 90 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle discusses what may still change between months four and twelve after knee replacement. Formal physical therapy may be over and daily life may look more familiar, while strength, endurance, balance, stairs, work, and longer activities can still be limited. She explains how to identify the abilities that may need focused work, why walking can improve before higher-demand tasks, and why a date on the calendar does not define what your operated leg can do. Read the Episode 90 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process. 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 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 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 89: Six Knee Replacement Myths You Should Stop Believing (What Most Patients Still Believe After Surgery) | 14 Jul 2026 | 00:14:49 | |
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 Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter 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 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 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: Has Your Knee Replacement Progress Stalled? (Why Plateaus Are More Common Than You Think) | 10 Jul 2026 | 00:09:43 | |
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. 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 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 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: Five Signs You're Making Progress After Knee Replacement (Looking Beyond the Calendar) | 07 Jul 2026 | 00:12:18 | |
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. 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 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 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: Comparing Yourself to Other Knee Replacement Patients (Why Someone Else’s Recovery Story Is Rarely a Useful Benchmark) | 03 Jul 2026 | 00:14:30 | |
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. 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 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 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: What Most People Get Wrong About Recovery Timelines (Why the Calendar Doesn’t Always Match the Experience) | 01 Jul 2026 | 00:15:38 | |
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. 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 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 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: Five More Things That Can Make Weeks Two Through Six After Knee Replacement Easier (The Tools Patients Tell Me They Were Glad They Had) | 26 Jun 2026 | 00:15:06 | |
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. 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 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 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: Five Things That Make the First Two Weeks After Knee Replacement Easier (The Items Patients Tell Me They Used the Most) | 23 Jun 2026 | 00:15:49 | |
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. 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 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 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: Prehab for Worriers and Warriors (How to Get Ready So the First Two Weeks Go Better) | 19 Jun 2026 | 00:15:12 | |
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. 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 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 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: Prehab for Low Stamina (Steps, Pacing, and Building Capacity Before Surgery) | 16 Jun 2026 | 00:12:29 | |
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 Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter 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 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 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: Prehab for Weak Quads (Strength, Activation, and Why It Matters Early) | 12 Jun 2026 | 00:15:01 | |
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. 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 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 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 79: Prehab for Stiff Knees (Range, Swelling Control, and the Daily Habits That Move the Needle) | 09 Jun 2026 | 00:12:59 | |
Episode 79 begins a prehab series by focusing on stiff knees before total knee replacement. Michelle explains the most common reasons a knee feels stiff, why timing and swelling patterns affect motion, and how consistent prehab habits can make a knee easier to work with after surgery. The Episode previews Episode 80, which shifts the series to quad weakness and activation. Read the Episode 79 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process. 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 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 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 78: When Sleep Finally Stops Controlling Your Entire Day (Energy, Patience, Participation, and Feeling More Like Yourself Again) | 05 Jun 2026 | 00:09:33 | |
Episode 78 explains what changes when sleep finally stops controlling your entire day after knee replacement, even before sleep becomes perfect. Michelle describes how energy, patience, participation, and a sense of feeling like yourself often return in small, practical ways as nights improve. The Episode checks back in with Claire and closes the sleep series, then previews a new prehab series beginning in Episode 79. Read the Episode 78 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process. 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 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 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 77: Sleeping Better After Knee Replacement (Research & Real Life: Swelling, Routines, Positioning, Timing) | 01 Jun 2026 | 00:13:22 | |
Episode 77 explores what the research shows about how sleep starts improving after knee replacement and why progress often comes from small adjustments that stack over time. Michelle connects findings from sleep questionnaires, wearable tracking, and overnight sleep studies to four practical areas: swelling timing, routines, positioning, and timing conversations with your provider. Episode 77 also previews Episode 78, which looks at what changes when sleep stops controlling your entire day. Read the Episode 77 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process. 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 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 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 76: Sleep Changes Everything After Knee Replacement (The Overlooked Effects of Interrupted Sleep) | 29 May 2026 | 00:17:01 | |
Episode 76 explores what fragmented sleep can start changing after total knee replacement and why disrupted nights often affect far more than nighttime alone. Michelle explains how interrupted sleep can influence pain sensitivity, energy, focus, patience, and perceived effort during the day. The episode also discusses why progress can feel inconsistent when sleep is unreliable and why day-to-day variability can be normal in the early post-op period. Read the Episode 76 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process. 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 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 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 75: Why Sleep Becomes So Difficult After Knee Replacement (Pain, Nervous System Alertness, and Why Your Brain Will Not Fully Shut Off) | 26 May 2026 | 00:14:03 | |
Episode 75 explores why sleep becomes so difficult after total knee replacement and why nighttime often feels harder than many people expect after surgery. Michelle explains the interaction between postoperative inflammation, swelling fluctuations, nervous system alertness, pain sensitivity, positioning discomfort, medication timing, and sleep monitoring behaviors. The episode also discusses why many people feel physically exhausted yet mentally alert after surgery and why disrupted sleep can remain unpredictable long after the daytime environment quiets down. Read the Episode 75 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process. 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 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 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 74: When Strength Finally Turns Into Confidence (How Strength Helps Build Real World Confidence After Knee Replacement) | 22 May 2026 | 00:11:17 | |
Episode 74 explores how strength after total knee replacement gradually turns into movement confidence through repeated successful movement experiences. Michelle discusses balance, stair confidence, walking participation, movement hesitation, and why confidence often develops more slowly than physical strength. The episode also explains how real world movement practice, repetition, and consistent participation influence long term independence after knee replacement. Read the Episode 74 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process. 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 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 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 73: How to Build Strength Without Setting Yourself Back (Flareups, Exercise Dosage, and Safe Strength Progression After Knee Replacement) | 19 May 2026 | 00:16:49 | |
Episode 73 explores how to build strength after total knee replacement without triggering repeated flareups and inconsistent progress. Michelle explains the difference between productive soreness and warning signs, discusses progressive loading and pacing strategies, and reviews current rehabilitation research related to strength, balance, and movement confidence. The episode also examines how repeated successful movement experiences influence long term mobility and independence. Read the Episode 73 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process. 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 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 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 72: Walking Better But Still Weak After Knee Replacement (Why Strength and Walking Ability Improve at Different Rates) | 15 May 2026 | 00:15:42 | |
Episode 72 explains why walking ability and strength often improve on different timelines after total knee replacement. Michelle discusses why walking can improve through reduced pain, better rhythm, and compensation before the quadriceps has fully rebuilt strength, endurance, and control. The Episode helps listeners understand why stairs, sit-to-stands, fatigue, and longer outings may still feel difficult even when walking is improving, and how to interpret those experiences with more confidence and direction. Listeners will leave with a clearer way to interpret progress and take a more active role in rebuilding strength and function. Read the Episode 72 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process. | |||
| Episode 71:Why Your Quad Still Isn’t Working (The Real Reason Strength Doesn’t Come Back Automatically) | 12 May 2026 | 00:16:39 | |
Episode 71 explores why quadriceps strength often does not return automatically after total knee replacement, even when pain improves and walking increases. Michelle explains the role of nervous system inhibition, swelling, compensation patterns, and muscle activation in delayed strength restoration. The episode also discusses NMES, functional progress patterns, and why rebuilding trust in your new knee takes time. Listeners will leave with a clearer understanding of why weakness persists and how progressive rehabilitation supports long-term progress. Read the Episode 71 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process. 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 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 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 70: When Will Walking Feel Like You Again (The Honest Timeline for Gait Rehabilitation) | 08 May 2026 | 00:26:11 | |
In Episode 70, Michelle explains the honest timeline for when walking begins to feel natural again after knee replacement. She walks through the early postoperative, later early rehabilitation, intermediate rehabilitation, and later rehabilitation phases, clarifying why progress is not linear, how strength and endurance develop at different rates, and why consistency plays a critical role. This Episode connects gait biomechanics to real-world expectations and closes the walking series. Read the Episode 70 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process. 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 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 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 69: The Limp That's Protecting You vs. The Limp That's Hurting You (Understanding Compensation After Knee Replacement) | 05 May 2026 | 00:14:35 | |
In Episode 69, Michelle explains why limping happens after knee replacement and how to recognize the difference between a protective limp and one that may be holding you back. She walks you through what your body is doing during each phase of healing, how to interpret what you are feeling when you walk, and how to respond in a way that supports progress without forcing perfection. Read the Episode 69 article and resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter - practical education for where you are in the knee replacement process. 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 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 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. | |||