The knee joint is made up of the femoro-tibial joint and the femoro-patellar joint, which allow movements such as flexion, extension and rotation of the knee.
When the cartilage in the joint deteriorates, it leads to symptoms such as pain, stiffness, inflammation and decreased joint function. This deterioration can be caused by various factors such as fractures, bone malformations, inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, poor blood supply to the joint, infections or simply the natural wear and tear associated with aging.
In cases where osteoarthritis becomes severe and results in persistent pain, limitation of function, and deterioration in quality of life, knee joint replacement surgery, called total knee replacement (TKA), may be considered. This surgery aims to replace worn joint surfaces with artificial components to restore normal knee function.
For the management of total knee arthroplasty, physiotherapy plays an important role. Physiotherapists assess the specific needs of each patient and develop a personalized treatment plan to promote optimal recovery. This includes preoperative and postoperative rehabilitation programs that include muscle strengthening exercises, stretching and joint mobilization techniques, as well as pain management strategies.
It is also essential that patients receive adequate education on postoperative precautions, safe walking techniques, and activities to avoid during the recovery period. Physiotherapists play a key role in this education, enabling patients to take charge of their rehabilitation and optimize their recovery.
Home physiotherapy has many benefits for patients undergoing TKA. This allows them to receive care in their familiar environment, thus promoting better adherence to treatment. Rehabilitation programs can be tailored to individual patient needs, facilitating targeted and effective recovery. In addition, home physiotherapy allows regular monitoring of the patient's progress, which contributes to optimal recovery.
In conclusion, physiotherapy plays a vital role in the management of total knee arthroplasty, helping patients regain normal joint function and relieve pain. Through personalized rehabilitation programs, proper pain management and patient education, physiotherapists help optimize outcomes and promote full recovery. Home physiotherapy offers additional benefits in terms of comfort, personalization and overall care, making it a valuable option for patients undergoing TKA.
Sources:
Diane U Jette and others, Physical Therapist Management of Total Knee Arthroplasty, Physical Therapy, Volume 100, Issue 9, September 2020, Pages 1603–1631, https://doi.org/10.1093/ptj/pzaa099
CISSS de Laval. Ma chirurgie du genou : Arthroplastie du genou - Guide pour les usagers. Novembre 2015 [Consulté le 17 mai 2023].
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