Patient Overview
Age: 55 years
Gender: Female
Condition: Post-operative knee stiffness and pain
Procedure History: Total Knee Replacement (TKR)
Referred By: Orthopaedic surgeon
Clinic: K S Ortho Clinic, Madipakkam
The patient reported difficulty in walking, knee stiffness, swelling, and fear of movement two weeks after surgery. Despite surgical success, functional recovery was slow due to limited joint mobility and muscle weakness.
Initial Physiotherapy Assessment
A comprehensive physiotherapy evaluation was conducted to understand the patient’s limitations.
Findings included:
Reduced knee range of motion
Quadriceps muscle weakness
Pain during walking and stair climbing
Poor gait pattern
Swelling around the operated knee
Based on the assessment, a customized post-surgical physiotherapy rehabilitation plan was created.
“Physiotherapy transforms surgical success into real-world mobility.”
Phase 1: Pain Relief & Mobility (Weeks 1–2)
Cryotherapy to reduce swelling
Gentle passive and assisted knee movements
Quadriceps activation exercises
Gait training with support
Goal: Reduce pain and initiate safe joint movement.
Phase 2: Strengthening & Functional Training (Weeks 3–5)
Progressive knee bending exercises
Muscle strengthening for thigh and hip muscles
Balance and coordination training
Stair-climbing practice
Goal: Improve joint stability and walking confidence.
Phase 3: Advanced Rehabilitation (Weeks 6–8)
Resistance exercises
Endurance and flexibility training
Independent walking without support
Home exercise program for long-term joint health
Goal: Restore normal daily function and independence.
Outcome and Recovery Results
After 8 weeks of structured physiotherapy, the patient achieved:
Near-normal knee range of motion
Pain-free walking without support
Improved muscle strength and balance
Ability to climb stairs independently
High confidence in daily activities
No post-surgical complications were observed, and follow-up reviews confirmed sustained improvement.
Key Clinical Insights
Surgery alone is not sufficient for full recovery
Early physiotherapy prevents stiffness and muscle loss
Structured rehabilitation improves long-term outcomes
Personalized care accelerates functional recovery
Why This Case Matters
This case demonstrates the critical role of physiotherapy after orthopaedic surgery. At K S Ortho Chennai, physiotherapists work closely with surgeons to ensure patients regain mobility safely and confidently.
Conclusion
Post-surgical physiotherapy is essential for restoring movement, strength, and independence. This case study highlights how expert-guided rehabilitation at K S Ortho Clinic, Madipakkam leads to faster recovery, reduced pain, and improved quality of life.
