In this episode of the Total Knee Success Podcast, we tackle one of the most common questions after knee replacement surgery: "When will I stop limping?" Discover why limping can persist after surgery, the science behind gait retraining, and practical, evidence-based strategies to help you walk with confidence again. We share step-by-step tips on weight bearing, using assistive devices correctly, correcting gait patterns, strengthening key muscles, and practicing in different environments. Whether you’re preparing for surgery or deep into recovery, this episode offers actionable advice to help you break old habits, improve your walking, and regain your independence. Tune in for expert insights, encouragement, and resources to support your total knee success!

Disclaimer

Educational Purpose Only

Total Knee Success provides educational information on total knee replacement, rehabilitation, and related topics. All content—whether on this website, the podcast, or linked resources—is intended for general educational purposes only. It is not designed to diagnose, treat, or replace individualized medical care.

You should always consult your physician, surgeon, or physical therapist before making health decisions. Do not disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of material found here.

No Professional or Academic Relationship

Accessing this site or listening to the podcast does not create a physical therapist–patient relationship or a faculty–student relationship. Information is provided in a general context only and should not be considered personalized professional advice.

Educational and Professional Standards

Content is aligned with professional practice standards in the United States, including requirements for safe and ethical delivery of health information. Information is presented in a manner consistent with U.S. and Ohio laws governing health education, physical therapy practice, and academic instruction.

Affiliate Disclosure

This site and podcast may contain affiliate links. Total Knee Success participates in affiliate programs, including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

• If you purchase a product through an affiliate link, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Transparency matters—you should assume that links on this site or podcast may be affiliate links.

References

1. American Physical Therapy Association. Clinical practice guideline: Physical therapist management of total knee arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2020;100(9):1603-1631. doi:10.1093/ptj/pzaa099
2. Mont MA, Beaver WB, Dysart SH, Barrington JW, Del Gaizo DJ. Local infiltration analgesia in total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial. J Arthroplasty. 2018;33(1):90-95. doi:10.1016/j.arth.2017.08.017
3. Wylde V, Rooker J, Halliday L, Blom A. Acute postoperative pain at rest after hip and knee arthroplasty: severity, sensory qualities and impact. Musculoskeletal Care. 2011;9(4):201-209. doi:10.1002/msc.204
4. Smith TO, Chester R, Clark A, Donell ST. Cross-sectional study into peri-operative practices surrounding total knee replacement surgery in the UK. Knee. 2012;19(5):365-369. doi:10.1016/j.knee.2011.06.010
5. The Knee Journal. Reduced knee flexion in TKA patients: carryover of preoperative gait patterns. Knee. 2021.
6. McClelland JA, Webster KE, Feller JA. Gait analysis of patients following total knee replacement: a review. PMCID: PMC3754839.

Managing Pain and Swelling After Total Knee Replacement: Top 5 Tips

In this episode of the Total Knee Success Podcast, host Michelle discusses two common challenges faced after total knee replacement: pain and swelling. She shares five proven tips to manage these issues effectively, including the use of cold packs, leg elevation, compression stockings, balancing rest with gentle movement, and ensuring quality sleep. Michelle also highlights the importance of tracking progress and recognizing when to reach out to your care team for help. Upcoming episodes will focus on retraining your walk and advanced sleep strategies.

00:00 Introduction to Post-Surgery Challenges

00:45 Tip 1: Effective Use of Cold Packs

03:32 Tip 2: Elevate Your Leg Above Your Heart

06:07 Tip 3: Benefits of Compression Stockings

08:23 Tip 4: Balancing Rest and Gentle Movement

10:27 Tip 5: Importance of Sleep and Rest

13:22 Red Flags and When to Seek Help

14:17 Summary and Upcoming Episodes

References

1. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Management of Osteoarthritis of the Knee (Non-Arthroplasty), Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline. AAOS; 2021.
2. American Physical Therapy Association. Clinical practice guideline: Physical therapist management of total knee arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2020;100(9):1603-1631. doi:10.1093/ptj/pzaa099
3. Kehlet H, Dahl JB. Anaesthesia, surgery, and challenges in postoperative recovery. Lancet. 2003;362(9399):1921-1928. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(03)14966-5
4. Smith TO, Chester R, Clark A, Donell ST. Cross-sectional study into peri-operative practices surrounding total knee replacement surgery in the UK. Knee. 2012;19(5):365-369. doi:10.1016/j.knee.2011.06.010
5. Mont MA, Beaver WB, Dysart SH, Barrington JW, Del Gaizo DJ. Local infiltration analgesia in total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial. J Arthroplasty. 2018;33(1):90-95. doi:10.1016/j.arth.2017.08.017
6. Wylde V, Rooker J, Halliday L, Blom A. Acute postoperative pain at rest after hip and knee arthroplasty: severity, sensory qualities and impact. Musculoskeletal Care. 2011;9(4):201-209. doi:10.1002/msc.204

Medical Disclaimer

The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your specific condition or care. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. This podcast is not affiliated with Michelle's clinic or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on a product link in my show notes or at TotalKneeSuccess.com and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support the podcast and allow me to keep creating free, evidence-based content. I only share products that are commonly recommended for knee replacement recovery and that patients have found helpful.

Show Notes – Total Knee Success Podcast Trailer

Have you recently had a total knee replacement or are you preparing for surgery? Are you wondering what recovery will really be like?

You’re in the right place. The Total Knee Success Podcast is your trusted resource for:

• Practical tips to manage pain and swelling after knee replacement
• Strategies to start walking naturally again and rebuild mobility
• Physical therapy insights that speed recovery and improve confidence
• Guidance on bending, exercise, scar healing, sleep, and more
• What to expect before and after surgery—so you can move forward with clarity

Hosted by Michelle Losurdo, PT, DPT, OCS, Cert DN—an experienced, board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist—this podcast brings you evidence-based guidance, real-world advice, and encouragement for every stage of recovery.

Whether you’re preparing, in the thick of rehab, or looking ahead to long-term success, this show will help you make the most of your knee replacement journey.

Subscribe today so you don’t miss our first full episode!

Disclaimer

The Total Knee Success Podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your specific condition or care. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. This podcast is not affiliated with Michelle's clinic or teaching roles.

Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on a product link in my show notes or at TotalKneeSuccess.com and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support the podcast and allow me to keep creating free, evidence-based content. I only share products that are commonly recommended for knee replacement recovery and that patients have found helpful.