In Episode 48 of the Total Knee Success podcast, Michelle explains what truly defines a successful recovery after total knee replacement beyond range of motion and timelines. She discusses strength, functional performance, walking endurance, balance, and meaningful improvement as more accurate markers of progress. Listeners learn how to evaluate their own recovery in practical, real-life terms and gain clarity about whether they are truly on track.NMES unit commonly used for quad muscle contractionGet email when The Knee Replacement Game Plan is released.Visit totalkneesuccess.com.Medical 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):1-15.Arhos EK, Ito N, Stevens-Lapsley JE, et al. Who’s afraid of electrical stimulation? Let’s revisit the application of NMES at the knee. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2024;54(2):101-110.Roush JR, et al. Preliminary evaluation of the clinimetrics of a modified Lower Extremity Functional Scale in older adults after total knee arthroplasty. JOSPT Open. 2024;2(3):240-250.Dandis R, et al. Latent class analysis to predict outcomes of early high-intensity physical therapy after total knee arthroplasty, based on longitudinal trajectories of walking speed. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(7):362-370.Na A, et al. Diabetes mellitus blunts the symptoms, physical function, and health-related quality of life benefits of total knee arthroplasty: A systematic review with meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(6):269-280.Aldhahwani BM, et al. Sociodemographic differences in short-term physical function outcomes after hip and knee arthroplasty in the United States: A scoping review. JOSPT Open. 2025;3(3):254-268.Nunes GS, et al. Are changes in dynamic knee movement control related to changes in pain or function in people with knee disorders? A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(7):388-401.White DK, et al. A telehealth physical therapy intervention to increase physical activity in adults with knee OA: The Delaware PEAK randomized controlled trial. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(5):377-388.TKA Structured Research Guide. Balance and falls evidence summary. Updated 2025.

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

Related