In Episode 35 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explores how to think about the timing of knee replacement without focusing solely on the calendar. This episode walks listeners through the trade-offs between waiting and moving forward, explains how strength, balance, and physical capacity influence recovery, and helps people reflect on whether waiting is preserving function or gradually making recovery harder. Listeners are encouraged to use this information alongside conversations with their surgeon to make informed, individualized decisions.More information at totalkneesuccess.com.What will you do in the two weeks before surgery? Click on this link: totalkneesuccess.kit.com/free2weeklaunchMedical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan.Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.ReferencesOrange GM, Hince DA, Jones M, et al. Physical function following total knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis: a longitudinal systematic review with meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(1):1–14.Canfield M, Savoy L, Cote MP, Halawi MJ. Patient-reported outcome measures in total joint arthroplasty: defining the optimal collection window. Arthroplasty Today. 2020;6:62–67.Fortin PR, Penrod JR, Clarke AE, et al. Timing of total joint replacement affects clinical outcomes among patients with osteoarthritis of the hip or knee. Arthritis Rheum. 2002;46(12):3327–3330.Minick KI, Hunter SJ, Capin JJ, et al. Improved outcomes following a care guideline implementation: part 1 of an analysis of 12,355 patients after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(3):143–150.Capin JJ, Minick KI, Stevens-Lapsley JE, et al. Variation in outcomes and number of visits following care guideline implementation: part 2 of an analysis of 12,355 patients after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(3):151–160.Bricca A, Juhl CB, Steultjens M, et al. Exercise therapy “wears down” my knee joint: myth or reality? J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(7):463–470.Chan ACM, Ouyang XH, Jehu DAM, Chung RCK, Pang MYC. Recovery of balance function among individuals with total knee arthroplasty: comparison of responsiveness among four balance tests. Gait Posture. 2018;59:267–271.

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