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Call 07 3102 3337

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Your Guide to Total Knee Replacement Surgery

Your Guide to Total Knee Replacement Surgery

by | Jun 1, 2025 | Knee, Pain, Surgery

 Total knee replacement (TKR) is a life-changing procedure for individuals suffering from chronic knee pain, typically caused by osteoarthritis. At Praxis Physiotherapy, we understand that total knee replacement (TKR) surgery is a major decision. As such, we are committed to helping patients navigate their surgical journey and maximize outcomes through tailored prehabilitation and rehabilitation programs.

This guide is designed to walk you through what to expect before and after surgery, how physiotherapy plays a crucial role, and the advanced, evidence-based services we offer to support your journey.

Why Physiotherapy Matters

Physiotherapy isn’t just something you do after surgery—it’s a vital part of your preparation. Prehabilitation (prehab) that begins around six weeks before surgery can improve muscle strength, mobility, and balance, leading to quicker, more successful recoveries post-surgery (Domínguez-Navarro et al., 2020).

Similarly, post-operative physiotherapy supports improved pain relief, better joint function, and faster return to daily activities (Artz et al., 2015), (Fatoye et al., 2021).

Pre-Surgery: Building a Strong Foundation

It’s easy to think, “Why do physio now when the knee is being replaced anyway?” But strengthening and conditioning your body beforehand significantly boosts your post-surgery recovery, helping you get back on your feet faster and with greater confidence. We can address any questions or concerns you may have leading up to the surgery.

Timeline: Ideally begins 6-8 weeks prior to surgery.

Goals:

  • Strengthen muscles around the knee
  • Improve joint mobility
  • Enhance balance and proprioception
  • Educate on post-operative exercises

Key Interventions at Praxis:

  • Reformer Pilates: Our modified prehab programs integrate Pilates to build core stability and lower limb strength. It’s a safe, adaptable way to enhance neuromuscular control before surgery (Levine et al., 2009).
  • Balance Training: Proven to improve post-surgical function when combined with strength training [(Domínguez-Navarro et al., 2020)].
  • Education: We prepare you with strategies to navigate the early post-op period, including mobility aids and pain management.

  • Expert Manual Therapy: Enhances joint mobility, reduces pre-surgical stiffness, and prepares surrounding tissues for optimal post-surgery performance.

Early Post-Op Phase (0-6 weeks)

Immediately following surgery, your primary goals will be managing pain, reducing swelling, and restoring basic mobility.

Many assume recovery only begins once the surgical pain fades—but getting moving early is critical. Guided physiotherapy helps you regain mobility safely, reduce complications, and build confidence from the very start.

Expect:

  • Supervised sessions with focus on safe movement and circulation
  • Gentle range-of-motion and isometric exercises
  • Gait retraining using assistive devices

Evidence-based benefit: Early mobilisation and physiotherapy within days of surgery improve short-term outcomes (Isaac et al., 2005).

Mid to Late Post-Op Phase (6 weeks – 6 months)

At this stage, the intensity of therapy increases to target long-term function. Don’t settle for “good enough” recovery. This phase is where you rebuild your strength, stability, and full mobility—setting the stage for lasting function and confidence in your new joint.

Our Therapeutic Arsenal Includes:

  • Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Training: Using pneumatic cuffs, we simulate high-load training effects using light resistance. Safe and effective for improving strength post-TKR (Piva et al., 2019).
  • Functional Strength & Balance Training: Tailored to your activity goals.
  • Reformer Pilates: Reactivated in this phase to support low-impact, whole-body conditioning.
  • Access to On-Site Gym Facilities: Ensures continuity and transition from rehab to independent exercise.

Patients receiving a combination of manual therapy and exercise had better functional outcomes than those receiving exercise alone (Karaborklu Argut et al., 2021), a practice we fully embrace at Praxis.

Clinical Expertise You Can Trust

Praxis Physiotherapy works in close collaboration with orthopaedic knee surgeon Dr. Kelly Macgroarty, ensuring a seamless continuum of care. However, we welcome referrals from any orthopaedic surgeon.

You’re not alone in this process. Our experienced team is with you every step of the way—offering expert care, tailored planning, and hands-on support backed by evidence and close collaboration with your surgical team

Our clinicians are highly skilled in post-TKR rehabilitation and stay up-to-date with the latest evidence-based interventions.

What Does the Research Say?

Recent studies underscore the critical value of physiotherapy before and after knee replacement surgery. Prehabilitation, including strength and balance training, has been shown to improve early recovery outcomes [(Domínguez-Navarro et al., 2020)]. Combining manual therapy with exercise yields superior functional gains compared to exercise alone [(Karaborklu Argut et al., 2021), (Abbott et al., 2013)]. Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training and Pilates have emerged as safe, effective adjuncts to conventional rehabilitation protocols [(Levine et al., 2009), (Piva et al., 2019)]. While short-term improvements in pain and mobility are well-documented, the long-term benefits of physiotherapy interventions vary across studies, highlighting the importance of personalized care and follow-up [(Artz et al., 2015), (Fatoye et al., 2021)].

What Makes Praxis Different?

  • Prehab programs starting 6+ weeks before surgery
  • Use of advanced modalities: BFR cuffs, Reformer Pilates
  • Access to gyms within our clinics
  • Close collaboration with top orthopaedic surgeons
  • One-on-one care tailored to your surgical timeline and goals

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

Total knee replacement doesn’t have to mean months of struggle and guesswork. With the right physiotherapy strategy—starting before your surgery—you can dramatically improve your mobility, reduce pain, and return faster to the activities you love. Reach out to Praxis Physiotherapy today to schedule your pre-operative assessment or post-surgical consultation. Let us guide your recovery with confidence, care, and clinical expertise.

Until next time, Praxis What You Preach…

📍 Clinics in Teneriffe, Buranda, and Carseldine

💪 Trusted by athletes. Backed by evidence. Here for everyone.

References

  • Artz, N. et al. (2015). Effectiveness of physiotherapy exercise following total knee replacement: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders.
  • Domínguez-Navarro, F. et al. (2020). Preoperative strengthening and balance training. Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy.
  • Fatoye, F. et al. (2021). Clinical and cost-effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions. Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery.
  • Karaborklu Argut, S. et al. (2021). Exercise and manual therapy vs exercise alone. PM&R.
  • Levine, B. et al. (2009). Pilates for rehabilitation after total joint arthroplasty. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research.
  • Piva, S. et al. (2019). Later-stage exercise vs usual care. JAMA Network Open.
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    Navigating Knee Osteoarthritis: A Physio-Centric Pathway to Strength and Mobility Before Surgery

    Navigating Knee Osteoarthritis: A Physio-Centric Pathway to Strength and Mobility Before Surgery

    by | Apr 22, 2025 | Knee, Reformer Pilates

    Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of chronic pain and mobility restriction in Australians over 45. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, an active grandparent, or someone just trying to keep up with the daily demands of life, OA can slowly erode your confidence in movement — long before X-rays show the full extent of joint degeneration.

    At Praxis Physiotherapy, we take a forward-thinking, collaborative approach to managing knee OA. Working closely with renowned orthopaedic knee surgeon Dr. Kelly Macgroarty and drawing from our extensive experience with high-performance athletes and everyday patients alike, we believe the journey toward better knees starts well before surgery — and, for many, might even avoid or delay it altogether.

    What is Knee Osteoarthritis?

    Knee OA is a progressive condition involving the breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone, typically leading to:

    • Pain during or after activity

    • Morning stiffness or stiffness after rest

    • Swelling and inflammation

    • Loss of flexibility and range of motion

    • Difficulty with stairs, kneeling, or prolonged standing

    Radiographic OA becomes more common with age, but symptoms often precede visible changes on X-ray. Up to 30% of people over 65 show radiographic OA, yet many remain functionally capable — highlighting the importance of early, movement-based interventions (Naja et al., 2021).

    Why a Physio-Led Model Before Knee Replacement?

    Surgery is not the first or only option. A large systematic review of 19 randomized controlled trials found that non-surgical interventions such as physiotherapy, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and structured exercise were associated with meaningful improvements in pain and function over 12 months (Naja et al., 2021). Physiotherapy, in particular, is consistently supported by international guidelines as a first-line treatment (Fransen et al., 2015; Bennell et al., 2014).

    Traditionally, knee OA rehab has emphasised quadriceps strengthening — and for good reason, as quadriceps weakness is strongly linked to OA-related pain and disability. However, more recent research suggests that focusing exclusively on the quadriceps may be too narrow. Programs that include hip (gluteal), hamstring, and calf muscle strengthening are now shown to be superior in improving functional outcomes, especially for activities like walking, stair climbing, and maintaining balance (Bennell et al., 2014). This broader approach addresses the full kinetic chain around the knee, optimises joint load distribution, and better supports long-term movement efficiency.

    At Praxis, our physios:

    • Assess gait, strength, joint mobility, and function

    • Design individualised exercise programs targeting quadriceps, glutes, and calf strength

    • Implement manual therapy techniques to restore joint mobility

    • Provide pain education, load management advice, and real-world strategies

    • Monitor progress and adjust programs over time

    This proactive approach not only builds resilience in the knee but also prepares the joint and surrounding muscles should surgery eventually be required.

    Booster Sessions: Keeping Gains, Lowering Costs

    An often-overlooked strategy is the use of booster physiotherapy sessions — structured follow-ups after an initial rehab program. Research by Bove et al. (2018) showed that exercise programs with booster sessions at 3, 6, and 12 months were not only more clinically effective but also more cost-effective over a two-year period compared to standard physiotherapy care.

    At Praxis, we now embed these booster sessions into long-term OA management. They help patients:

    • Maintain strength and conditioning gains

    • Stay accountable with home programs

    • Troubleshoot new symptoms early

    • Reduce future health care costs and medication reliance

    What About Injections and Other Adjuncts?

    We often collaborate with GPs and orthopaedic specialists to incorporate adjunct treatments where the evidence supports it:

    • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections showed significant long-term benefit for pain and function, with improvements of ~20 points on the WOMAC index. PRP ranked just behind stem cells as the most effective non-surgical treatment in a large 2021 network meta-analysis (Naja et al., 2021).

    • Hyaluronic acid (HA) injections have shown mixed results. A review of overlapping meta-analyses concluded that HA is likely safe and modestly effective, especially in early-stage OA, although guideline recommendations remain inconsistent (Xing et al., 2016).

    Ultimately, our philosophy is to build strong knees first, and complement physiotherapy with interventions like PRP or HA only when clinically indicated and appropriately timed.

    Surgical Collaboration 

    In more advanced cases, where conservative management fails, we work closely with Dr. Kelly Macgroarty, one of Queensland’s leading knee surgeons. Our relationship allows:

    • Streamlined triage for surgical consultation

    • Shared prehabilitation planning to improve surgical outcomes

    • Integrated post-operative rehab, using in-clinic gym equipment and reformer Pilates to accelerate return to function

    This continuity ensures you’re never left navigating knee OA alone — whether your journey stays entirely within physio care or progresses to surgical management.

    Why Praxis Physiotherapy?

    At Praxis, we’ve built our care model around best-practice guidelines, decades of elite sport and private practice experience, and a shared goal of keeping our patients active, independent, and thriving.

    Our Teneriffe, Carseldine and Buranda clinics offer:

    • In-clinic rehab gyms

    • Reformer Pilates for joint-friendly loading

    • Real-time strength testing technology

    • Physios with elite sports and post-surgical rehab experience

    Take the First Step

    If you or someone you love has been told you’re “heading for a knee replacement,” don’t wait. There is so much we can do to reduce pain, improve function, and build confidence in your knees — surgery or not.

    Book an appointment today at one of our Brisbane clinics and start your journey to stronger, more resilient knees.

    Interested in ACL specific rehab? Check our guide on return to sport after ACL injury

    Until next time, Praxis What You Preach!

    📍 Clinics in Teneriffe, Buranda, and Carseldine

    💪 Trusted by athletes. Backed by evidence. Here for everyone.

    References

    • Bove, A. M., Smith, K. J., Bise, C. G., et al. (2018). Exercise, manual therapy, and booster sessions in knee osteoarthritis: cost-effectiveness analysis from a multicenter randomized controlled trial. Physical Therapy, 98(1), 16–27.

    • Fransen, M., McConnell, S., Harmer, A. R., Van der Esch, M., Simic, M., & Bennell, K. L. (2015). Exercise for osteoarthritis of the knee: a Cochrane systematic review. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 49(24), 1554–1557.

    • Bennell, K. L., Dobson, F., & Hinman, R. S. (2014). Exercise in osteoarthritis: moving from prescription to adherence. Best Practice & Research Clinical Rheumatology, 28(1), 93–117.

    • Naja, M., Fernandez De Grado, G., Favreau, H., et al. (2021). Comparative effectiveness of non-surgical interventions in the treatment of patients with knee osteoarthritis: a PRISMA-compliant systematic review and network meta-analysis. Medicine, 100(49), 

    • Xing, D., Wang, B., Liu, Q., et al. (2016). Intra-articular hyaluronic acid in treating knee osteoarthritis: a PRISMA-compliant systematic review of overlapping meta-analyses. Scientific Reports, 6, 32790.

    ACL Rehabilitation: The Role of Physiotherapy in Returning to Life, Activity, and Sport

    ACL Rehabilitation: The Role of Physiotherapy in Returning to Life, Activity, and Sport

    by | Apr 22, 2025 | ACL, Gym and Strength, Knee, Return to Sport, Running Injuries

    On today’s Praxis what you Preach, we cover a very common injury here in Australia – the Anterior Cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. At Praxis Physiotherapy, we understand that recovering from ACL reconstruction is more than just healing a knee — it’s about restoring confidence, movement, and returning to the activities and lifestyle that matter most to each person. Physiotherapists are uniquely placed to guide this journey from surgery through to return to everyday function, recreation, and sport.

    What is an ACL Rupture?

    The ACL is one of the key stabilising ligaments of the knee, crucial for controlling rotation and forward movement of the tibia. An ACL rupture typically occurs during sudden changes in direction, pivoting, or awkward landings — common in sports like AFL, soccer, basketball, and netball. It most often affects young, active individuals, particularly females, due to biomechanical and hormonal factors. While not all ACL injuries require surgery, those with complete ruptures who wish to return to cutting or pivoting sports usually undergo ACL reconstruction. Regardless of the surgical decision, structured rehabilitation guided by a physiotherapist is essential for a successful recovery and long-term knee health.

    The Importance of Physiotherapy in ACL Rehab

    Research shows that while around 80% of individuals return to some form of sport after ACL reconstruction, only 65% return to their preinjury level and just 55% to competitive levels (Andrade et al. 2020). Physiotherapy plays a vital role in improving these outcomes by guiding progressive rehabilitation and using structured criteria-based progressions.

    Physiotherapy-led rehabilitation should begin early, with emphasis on knee mobilisation, weight-bearing as tolerated, and initiation of neuromuscular training (Andrade et al. 2020). The BJSM systematic review of clinical guidelines for ACL rehab supports early kinetic chain exercises (both open and closed), strength training, cryotherapy, and neuromuscular stimulation when indicated (Andrade et al. 2020).

    From Healing to Performance: A Continuum

    Recovery after ACL surgery should follow a continuum from impairment-based care to performance restoration. This includes early pain and swelling control, progressive strength and range of motion restoration, motor control retraining, and sport-specific preparation. At Praxis, we follow a phase-based rehabilitation model tailored to individual needs. These needs may include the type of surgical graft used, concurrent injury (e.g meniscus / MCL), the operating surgeon’s post-op protocols, the patient’s goals, sport-specific demands, timelines for return to competition, and previous levels of function — all of which require thoughtful and collaborative clinical decision-making.

    Unfortunately, studies show that many patients are discharged before meeting strength or performance benchmarks — particularly in strength-focused exercises like the split squat, squat, or deadlift, which play a vital role in ACL rehab progression. For example, performing around 22 single-leg sit-to-stands is one such late-stage benchmark that reflects adequate quadriceps strength and control before return to sport (Welling et al 2018). Nichols et al. (2021) found that most published rehabilitation protocols emphasize endurance and hypertrophy without progressing to the strength or power needed to reduce reinjury risk. This underlines the need for physiotherapists to include high-intensity, sports specific strength training and late-stage performance metrics as patients near return to sport.

    Addressing Muscle Atrophy and Weakness

    Quadriceps atrophy remains a key barrier to recovery post-ACL reconstruction. Evidence supports adjunct interventions such as neuromuscular electrical stimulation and blood flow restriction (BFR) training to combat muscle loss, particularly in the early post-operative period (Charles et al. 2020). BFR combined with low-load resistance exercise has been shown to reduce muscle wasting and promote strength gains when higher loads are contraindicated — we explore this more in our Blood Flow Restriction Training blog. We use this frequently at Praxis Physiotherapy in both reformer pilates and early gym based settings. 

    The Role of the Physio: More Than Just Exercise

    Our job as physiotherapists goes beyond prescribing exercises. We support patients through the emotional and motivational challenges of recovery, address fear of re-injury, and help them develop the confidence to return to sport or physically demanding jobs. We tailor plans based on functional goals, sport-specific needs, and personal circumstances.

    At Praxis, this also means working closely with coaches, GPs, surgeons, and families to ensure clear communication and aligned expectations. For sporting patients, this might include on-field rehab or comprehensive return-to-play assessments in collaboration with clubs and teams.

    A Collaborative, High-Performance Rehabilitation Environment

    At Praxis Physiotherapy, we bring high-performance rehab principles to all patients — not just elite athletes. Our team has provided physiotherapy services to the Aspley Hornets AFL Club since 2014, giving us deep insight into the physical and mental demands of competitive sport. We apply this same standard of care to everyday athletes, weekend warriors, and anyone seeking to return to an active lifestyle.

    We also work closely with orthopaedic knee and shoulder surgeon Dr. Kelly Macgroarty, including in-room triage consulting, ensuring a seamlessly integrated, evidence-informed rehabilitation pathway. This collaboration allows us to align surgical timelines, post-op considerations, and physiotherapy progressions — from day one to return to sport.

    Our clinical culture is shaped by exposure to elite-level sports environments, including AFL, representative athletics, and professional national cricket programs. But rather than highlight individual accolades, we’re most proud of the high clinical standards and systems-based approach that ensure our entire team delivers the same quality of care — no matter who walks through the door.

    Each of our Brisbane based clinics includes access to gym facilities and reformer Pilates equipment, allowing for real-world, function-driven exercise. These resources support patients to not only recover structurally but also return to high levels of strength, coordination, and performance in line with the latest evidence-based guidelines.

    A Message to Our Patients

    Whether you’re an athlete aiming for competitive return or someone wanting to run after your kids again, we bring the same level of care and attention to your ACL rehab. Recovery is not just about timelines — it’s about building back strength, movement, and trust in your knee. Ready to get started with your own recovery plan? Explore the ACL physiotherapy services at Praxis and book an appointment today.

    Until next time, Praxis What You Preach…

    📍 Clinics in Teneriffe, Buranda, and Carseldine
    💪 Trusted by athletes. Backed by evidence. Here for everyone.

    For more insights into long-term knee health, including non-surgical rehab, check out our Knee Osteoarthritis blog.

    References

    Andrade R, et al. (2020). How should clinicians rehabilitate patients after ACL reconstruction? A systematic review of clinical practice guidelines. Br J Sports Med, 54(9), 512–519.

    Kochman M, et al. (2022). ACL Reconstruction: Which Additional Physiotherapy Interventions Improve Early-Stage Rehabilitation? Int J Environ Res Public Health, 19(23), 15893.

    Charles D, et al. (2020). A systematic review of the effects of blood flow restriction training on quadriceps muscle atrophy and circumference post ACL reconstruction. Int J Sports Phys Ther, 15(6), 882–889.

    Nichols ZW, et al. (2021). Is resistance training intensity adequately prescribed to meet the demands of returning to sport following ACL repair? A systematic review. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med, 7(1), e001144.

    Welling W, Benjaminse A, Gokeler A, Otten E, & Seil R. (2018). Low rates of patients meeting return to sport criteria 9 months after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a prospective longitudinal study. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc, 26(12), 3636–3644.

    Knee Osteoarthritis: Is ‘Bone on Bone’ a painful life sentence?

    Knee Osteoarthritis: Is ‘Bone on Bone’ a painful life sentence?

    by | May 16, 2023 | Knee, Osteoarthritis, Pain, Surgery

    • Knee Osteoarthritis is a common ailment responsible for pain, loss of function and reduced quality of life
    • Rates of knee OA are set to increase
    • Whilst there is no cure, exercise therapy under the guidance of a physiotherapist is considered a front line treatment to help reduce the severity of symptoms
    • There are options before a knee replacement

    Do your knees go crackle and pop? Pain with walking, stairs or getting out of a chair? Stiffness and pain first thing in the morning or after a long car ride? These are signs that you may be living with the early or even advanced symptoms of knee osteoarthritis (OA). Don’t fear though – there is plenty that can be done immediately.

    What is “OA”?

    Osteoarthritis (OA) is an increasingly prevalent source of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. OA is a disease of the joint – including cartilage, bone, capsule and other associated tissues. This disease process can cause chronic pain, reduced physical function and diminished quality of life. The ageing population and increased global prevalence of obesity are anticipated to dramatically increase the impacts of knee OA and its associated impairments [1]. Although osteoarthritis can affect any joint, OA is knee is one of the most common complaints.

    Presentation

    It most commonly presents in people over the age of 50, and is often described as being painful, stiff and occasionally swollen. In terms of a tissue level, knee OA describes the gradual deterioration of the supportive cartilage within the knee joint. As the cartilage wears away with time, the protective joint space between the bones decreases. With a reduced cartilage lining to protect and support the spacing of the knee joint, the Femur and Tibia (knee bones) are increasingly less likely to dissipate forces through the joint . With time, it should be expected that bone spurs (osteophytes) may form in and around the joint as the bones react to repetitive contact with each other.

    Management

    The management of knee OA largely consists of exercises addressing strength, range of motion, quality of movement, emphasizing joint control, pain reduction and weight management.

    Strength Training

    Strength training should be the cornerstone of addressing knee OA, particularly the early signs. Strengthening the muscles around the knee joint, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes provide better support to the knee, reducing stress on the joint and helping to alleviate pain and discomfort. Movement associated with exercise has an added benefit – It increases joint lubrication. Loading of the joint stimulates the production and distribution of synovial fluid within the joint. This fluid acts as a lubricant, reducing friction and providing cushioning to the joint surfaces. Improved lubrication can help alleviate pain during movement.

    Range of motion

    Knee osteoarthritis often leads to stiffness and limited range of motion in the joint. Physiotherapy can include specific exercises, manual therapy and stretches to improve joint flexibility, helping to restore a more normal range of motion and enhancing mobility. The greater the restoration of range, the better the knee feels.

    Pain reduction

    Both strength training and physiotherapy can help reduce pain associated with knee OA. As mentioned, stronger muscles provide better support to the joint, relieving pressure and reducing pain during movement. Physiotherapy may provide education of aggravating and easing factors (eg. hot / cold packs, hydrotherapy) as well as liaise with your GP for adequate analgesic medications.

    Lifestyle modifications

    Adopting a healthy lifestyle can play a pivotal role in managing knee osteoarthritis. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the stress on the knee joints. Regular low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling and reformer pilates help improve strength, flexibility, and overall joint health. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can promote weight loss and provide essential nutrients for joint health. Quitting smoking and minimizing alcohol consumption are also beneficial.

    Improved weight management

    Regular exercise can assist in weight management, which is crucial for individuals with knee osteoarthritis. Excess weight puts additional strain on the knee joint, contributing to pain and progression of the condition. By maintaining a healthy weight, exercise helps to reduce the load on the joint and alleviate pain.

    Surgical Interventions

    When conservative measures fail to provide relief, surgical interventions may be necessary. Procedures such as arthroscopy, osteotomy, and joint replacement surgery can help repair damaged tissues, realign the joint, or replace the damaged joint with a prosthetic. These surgeries can significantly improve mobility and reduce pain, allowing individuals to resume their daily activities. Physiotherapy can aid in preparing you for the surgery, as well as rebuild your “new” knee after a knee replacement has been completed.

    In conclusion, while knee osteoarthritis can be challenging, it is not a condition that should hinder individuals from leading fulfilling lives. By implementing lifestyle modifications, exploring various treatment options, and working closely with your physiotherapist, individuals can effectively manage their symptoms, alleviate pain, and enjoy an active lifestyle with a sense of well-being. If conservative options fail, there are surgical interventions that can be investigated. If you are wanting to look after your knees, or already suffering from knee pain, chat to our knowledgeable Praxis Physios to discuss your treatment options at any stage of OA’s progression.

    Until next time,

    Praxis what you Preach

    Knee Pain

    Knee Pain

    by | Jan 7, 2020 | Knee, Pain

    Do you have a good knee and a bad knee? Do your knees snap, crackle and pop? Do you ever wish you could walk for longer without pain or not be worried about how your knees will feel in the morning if you were living your life to the fullest? Knee pain is a very common condition that affects people of all ages. Typically knee pain is the result of an injury on the sporting field when we are younger but tend to be more degenerative in nature as we age.
    Mid Potion Achilles Tendinopathy Location

    Different knee injuries tend to have differing symptoms. Common symptoms include:

    • Aching, sharp, stabbing and/or catching pains
    • Large amounts of swelling or sometimes pockets of swelling
    • Warm to touch
    • Feelings of grating, grinding or even giving way
    • Pops and crunching noises
    • Unable to full bend or straighten the knee

    The structures of the knee that are often implicated in knee pain are the patellar or quadriceps tendons, cartilage, meniscus, bursas, and even major ligaments such as the anterior cruciate ligament, otherwise known as the ACL.

    Common injuries to the knee can be:

    • Osteoarthritis
    • Tendinopathy / Tendonitis
    • Bursitis
    • Knee cap pain (patellofemoral pain)
    • Meniscal tear (degenerative and acute tears)
    • Dislocated knee cap
    • Iliotibial band friction syndrome

    Regardless of your symptoms and presentation, our highly trained Praxis physiotherapists have expertise in this area and will help identify the problem and work with you so that you will feel empowered to fix the problem. At Praxis Physio this is our point of difference, we promise to take the time to fix you using a range of modalities including advice, hands on manual therapies and of course strength and conditioning programming. In addition, we work in close collaboration with leading knee surgeons if this course of action is required.

     

    There is no need to accept knee pain as ‘normal’. Call us now on (07) 3102 3337 or book online to have one of our physios develop a plan to reduce your pain and restore your function!

    To read more about how running can help your knees (that’s right – running!) check out our related posts on running written by our published principal physio, Stephen.

    Team Praxis,

    PREVENT | PREPARE | PERFORM