How Physical Therapy Can Help After a Knee Replacement in Slidell

Recover faster. Move better. Get back to life.

A knee replacement is a big step toward living without pain, but it’s only the beginning of the healing process. What you do after surgery is just as important as the procedure itself. Without the right rehab, mobility can stall, pain can return, and recovery can take much longer than it should.

At Recover Physical Therapy in Slidell, we help patients recover from total knee replacements every week. Our personalized rehab programs are designed to help you rebuild strength, improve flexibility, and regain full use of your knee so you can walk, bend, and move the way you want again.

Whether you’re a few days post-op or still planning your surgery, our team is here to support your recovery from day one.

Contact us for inquiries or to schedule a consultation.

Why Physical Therapy Is Critical After Knee Replacement

Knee replacement surgery is one of the most effective ways to reduce chronic joint pain caused by arthritis, injury, or degeneration. But surgery alone doesn’t restore function. Without targeted therapy, even a successful procedure, can lead to stiffness, reduced mobility, and ongoing discomfort.

Here’s why physical therapy after a knee replacement in Slidell matters:

• Prevents complications: Scar tissue and joint stiffness can quickly set in. Early movement helps prevent long-term issues.
• Restores range of motion: Therapy helps you bend, straighten, and rotate the knee to its full potential.
• Rebuilds strength: Muscles around the joint must be retrained to support your new knee.
• Speeds up recovery: Guided rehab accelerates healing, reduces swelling, and gets you back on your feet sooner.
• Improves balance and coordination: Gait training helps reduce fall risk and ensures proper movement patterns return.

Physical therapy isn’t optional—it’s the bridge between surgery and real recovery. And the sooner you start, the better the outcome.

What to Expect From Knee Replacement Rehab in Slidell

At Recover Physical Therapy, we tailor your rehab plan to your specific needs, surgery type, and overall health. Here’s what you can expect from our knee replacement rehab:

Initial Evaluation and Goal Setting

Your first visit includes a full assessment of your mobility, pain levels, swelling, and strength. We’ll set short- and long-term goals together, like walking without a cane, climbing stairs, or returning to work.

Phase 1: Early Recovery (Weeks 1–3)

• Pain and swelling management
• Gentle passive and active motion
• Elevation and icing techniques
• Walking with a walker or cane
• Education on home safety and proper movement

Phase 2: Regaining Motion and Strength (Weeks 4–8)

• Stretching and range-of-motion exercises
• Strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes
• Balance work
• Stationary bike use if appropriate
• Gait training to correct limping

Phase 3: Functional Recovery (Weeks 9–12+)

• Advanced balance and coordination drills
• Stairs, ramps, and uneven surface navigation
• Return-to-activity preparation (gardening, driving, work duties)
• Reassess range of motion and pain
• Final progress measurements

Our therapists check in with you during every session, adjusting your program as needed to make sure you’re healing safely and making progress.

Benefits of Choosing Recover Physical Therapy in Slidell

You have options when it comes to outpatient rehab. So why choose Recover Physical Therapy?

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Specialized orthopedic experience – We work with knee replacements daily and understand the surgical process and recovery timeline inside and out.
• Personalized care plans – No cookie-cutter therapy here. Every plan is tailored to your age, activity level, and surgical notes.
• Hands-on techniques – We use joint mobilization, dry needling, soft tissue work, and other methods to support your recovery.
• Convenient Slidell location – Our clinic is easy to access with ample parking and flexible scheduling options.
• One-on-one attention – You’ll work with the same therapist throughout your recovery. We get to know you and your goals.
• Supportive environment – Recovery can be tough. We make it a little easier with a positive, encouraging space.

When your knee matters, don’t leave recovery to chance. Work with a team that cares as much about your results as you do.

Schedule Your Post-Op Knee Rehab in Slidell Today

The sooner you start physical therapy after your knee replacement, the faster and smoother your recovery will be. At Recover Physical Therapy in Slidell, we’re ready to help you move confidently again—step by step, one session at a time.

Call today or request an appointment online to get started with expert knee rehab. We’ll answer your questions, walk you through the next steps, and help you take the first stride toward a stronger, pain-free future.

FAQs  

How soon after surgery should I start physical therapy?

Most patients begin PT within a few days of surgery—sometimes as early as day one. Your surgeon will usually recommend starting rehab as soon as possible to prevent stiffness and get you moving.

Will physical therapy after surgery be painful?

Some discomfort is normal—especially early on—but therapy should never be unbearable. We work at a pace your body can handle while still challenging your knee to improve each week.

What if I had surgery out of town? Can I still do rehab here in Slidell?

Yes! Many patients have surgery in a different city but complete rehab locally. We’ll coordinate care with your surgeon if needed and pick up right where your hospital team left off.