In Episode 9 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, we explore the step-by-step process of regaining strength after knee replacement. You’ll learn why quadriceps weakness happens, how swelling affects muscle activation, and how healing timelines connect to strengthening goals. We also highlight a “minimal quad program” of research-backed exercises you should not skip, plus red flags that tell you when to pause and call your care team.

Learn more and access additional resources at TotalKneeSuccess.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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.

References

1. Mizner RL, Petterson SC, Snyder-Mackler L. Quadriceps strength and functional recovery after TKA. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2005;87(5):1047–1053.
2. Rice DA, McNair PJ. Arthrogenic muscle inhibition of the quadriceps: mechanisms & treatment. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2010;40(3):250–266.
3. Goodpaster BH, et al. Loss of skeletal muscle strength/mass/quality in older adults. J Gerontol A. 2006;61(10):1059–1064.
4. American College of Sports Medicine. Progression models in resistance training for healthy adults. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2009;41(3):687–708.
5. Jette DU, et al. APTA Clinical Practice Guideline: Physical therapist management of TKA. Phys Ther. 2020;100(9):1603–1631.
6. Brigham & Women’s Hospital. Total Knee Arthroplasty Protocol. 2022.
7. Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Total Knee Arthroplasty Clinical Practice Guideline. 2019.
8. Skou ST, et al. Early and late strength recovery after TKA. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2018;476(6):1131–1141.
9. Mizner RL, et al. Quadriceps strength and activation failure in patients with TKA. J Orthop Res. 2005;23(5):1083–1090.
10. Villadsen A, et al. Intensive rehabilitation after TKA improves function. Arthritis Care Res. 2014;66(12):1856–1866.
11. Minns Lowe CJ, et al. Effectiveness of physiotherapy exercise after knee replacement: systematic review. BMJ. 2007;335:812.