Episode 84 continues the conversation from Episode 83 by introducing five more tools that may become helpful during weeks two through six after knee replacement. Michelle explains how a self-standing cane, portable car assist handle, step tracker, stretch-out strap, and nine-inch Pilates ball can support walking, exercise, and returning to everyday activities. The Episode also discusses NMES and pedal exercisers as optional tools that should be used with guidance from your rehabilitation team.

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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.

References:

1. Orange GM, Hince DA, Jones M, et al. Physical function following total knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis: A longitudinal systematic review and meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(1).
2. Arhos EK, Ito N, Mayer IM, 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):101-107.
3. Graber J, Christiansen CL, Davidson BS, et al. Expert consensus for the use of outpatient rehabilitation visits after total knee arthroplasty: A Delphi study. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(9):566-576.
4. Capin JJ, Minick KI, Stevens-Lapsley JE, et al. Variation in outcomes and number of visits following care guideline implementation after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(3):151-159.
5. Duong V, Dennis S, Ferreira ML, et al. Predictors of adherence to a step-count intervention following total knee replacement: An exploratory cohort study. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):620-628.
6. 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).
7. Thomas AC, Stevens-Lapsley JE. Importance of attenuating quadriceps activation deficits after total knee arthroplasty. Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 2012;40(2):95-101.

Episode 83 focuses on five tools patients often report using the most during the first two weeks after knee replacement. Michelle explains how cold therapy, elevation, compression socks, supportive shoes that are easy to put on, and a leg lifter strap can support swelling management, comfort, safer walking, and independence. This Episode is educational and practical, helping listeners think through their home setup before surgery without turning preparation into an overwhelming shopping list.

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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.

References:

1. Liang Z, Zhu C, Chen X, et al. Cryotherapy for rehabilitation after total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Orthop Surg Res. 2024;19:1-12.
2. Quesnot A, Guillot S, Laurent A, et al. Randomized controlled trial of compressive cryotherapy versus standard cryotherapy after total knee arthroplasty. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2024;25:1-10.
3. Christensen LMR, Overgaard S, Bagger J, et al. The effect of compression therapy on post-surgical swelling and pain after total knee arthroplasty. Int J Orthop Trauma Nurs. 2021;41:100815.
4. Munk S, Jensen NJF, Andersen I, Kehlet H, Hansen TB. Effect of compression therapy on knee swelling and pain after total knee arthroplasty. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2013;21(2):388-392.
5. Thomas AC, Stevens-Lapsley JE. Importance of attenuating quadriceps activation deficits after total knee arthroplasty. Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 2012;40(2):95-101.
6. Arhos EK, Ito N, Mayer IM, 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):101-107.
7. Orange 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.

Episode 82 closes the prehab series by focusing on how to get ready before knee replacement so the first two weeks go better. Michelle walks through five specific areas to get ready for before surgery, including your setup, early exercises, the rhythm of the day, response to harder days, and the follow-through plan. Using Megan as an example, this Episode shows how specific preparation can make the early phase feel more familiar and easier to manage.

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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.

References:

Gränicher P, Franchi F, Gokeler A, et al. Prehabilitation improves knee functioning before and within the first year after total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review with meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(11):709-725. doi:10.2519/jospt.2022.11160.

Goff AJ, Donaldson A, de Oliveira Silva D, Crossley KM, Barton CJ. Physical therapists prioritize providing education about exercise therapy and to dispel misconceptions about radiology for people with knee osteoarthritis: a concept mapping study. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):607-617. doi:10.2519/jospt.2022.11097.

Ho CJ, Chen YT, Wu HL, Huang HT, Lin SY. The effects of a patient-specific integrated education program on pain, perioperative anxiety, and functional recovery following total knee replacement. J Pers Med. 2022;12(5):719. doi:10.3390/jpm12050719.

Dandis R, Speekenbrink M, Stienstra JJL, 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):362-369. doi:10.2519/jospt.2021.10209.

Graber J, Churchill L, Struessel T, et al. Expert consensus for the use of outpatient rehabilitation visits after total knee arthroplasty: a Delphi study. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(9):566-574. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11840.

Orange GM, Hince DA, Travers MJ, 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):1-13. doi:10.2519/jospt.2024.12645.

Mehaidli A, Mabry T, Schmitt DR, et al. Preoperative joints education class decreases length of stay after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Exp Innov. 2025;6(1). doi:10.60118/001c.127699.

Episode 81 focuses on low stamina before knee replacement and five practical steps that can help some people build a more repeatable base before surgery. Michelle walks through tracking a baseline, choosing a starting amount, building slowly, pacing the day, and supporting stamina with strength and standing tolerance. Using Megan as an example, this Episode explains how step tracking, pacing, and gradual progression can help people prepare for the early phase after surgery.

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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.

References:

Gränicher P, Franchi F, Gokeler A, et al. Prehabilitation improves knee functioning before and within the first year after total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review with meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(11):709-725. doi:10.2519/jospt.2022.11160.

Duong V, Dennis S, Ferreira ML, et al. Predictors of adherence to a step count intervention following total knee replacement: an exploratory cohort study. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):620-629. doi:10.2519/jospt.2022.11133.

White DK, Hinman RS, Liles S, 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):377-385. doi:10.2519/jospt.2025.13132.

Karimijashni M, de Rooij M, van der Leeden M, et al. Prehabilitation in patients at risk of poorer outcomes following total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review. J Arthroplasty. 2025;40(3):840-851. doi:10.1016/j.arth.2024.10.036.

Na A, Creaky J, Oppermann M, 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 of data from more than 17 000 patients. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(6):269-280. doi:10.2519/jospt.2021.9515.

Bricca A, Juhl CB, Roos EM. Exercise Therapy “Wears Down” My Knee Joint: Myth or Reality? J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(7):463-467. doi:10.2519/jospt.2025.13069.

Orange 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):1-13. doi:10.2519/jospt.2024.12645.

Episode 80 continues a four part prehab series by focusing on weak quads before knee replacement. Michelle explains how quad weakness can be true strength loss and also a problem of activation, especially when pain and swelling are involved. The Episode connects prehab strength work, movement practice, and therapist guided tools like NMES to the early phase after surgery, then previews Episode 81 on low stamina and pacing.

Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement

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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.

References:

Gränicher P, Franchi F, Gokeler A, et al. Prehabilitation improves knee functioning before and within the first year after total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review with meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(11):752-768. doi:10.2519/jospt.2022.11160.

Mizner RL, Petterson SC, Snyder-Mackler L. Preoperative quadriceps strength predicts functional ability one year after total knee arthroplasty. J Rheumatol. 2005;32(8):1533-1539.

Mizner RL, Snyder-Mackler L. Early quadriceps strength loss after total knee arthroplasty: the contributions of muscle atrophy and failure of voluntary muscle activation. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2005;87(5):1047-1053. doi:10.2106/JBJS.D.01992.

Rice DA, McNair PJ. Quadriceps arthrogenic muscle inhibition: neural mechanisms and treatment perspectives. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2010;40(3):250-266. doi:10.1016/j.semarthrit.2009.10.001.

Palmieri-Smith RM, Villwock M, Downie B, Hecht G, Zernicke R. Pain and effusion and quadriceps activation and strength. J Athl Train. 2013;48(2):186-191. doi:10.4085/1062-6050-48.2.10.

Arhos EK, Ito N, Hunter-Giordano A, Nolan TP, Snyder-Mackler L, Grävare Silbernagel K. Who’s Afraid of Electrical Stimulation? Let’s Revisit the Application of NMES at the Knee. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2024;54(2):101-106. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.12028.

Stevens-Lapsley JE, Balter JE, Kohrt WM, Eckhoff DG. Early neuromuscular electrical stimulation to improve quadriceps muscle strength after total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial. Phys Ther. 2012;92(2):210-226. doi:10.2522/ptj.20110124.

Episode 79 begins a prehab series by focusing on stiff knees before total knee replacement. Michelle explains the most common reasons a knee feels stiff, why timing and swelling patterns affect motion, and how consistent prehab habits can make a knee easier to work with after surgery. The Episode previews Episode 80, which shifts the series to quad weakness and activation.

Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement

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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.

References:

1. Gränicher P, Franchi F, Gokeler A, et al. Prehabilitation improves knee functioning before and within the first year after total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review with meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(11):752-768. doi:10.2519/jospt.2022.11160.
2. Su W, Zhou Y, Qiu H, et al. The effects of preoperative rehabilitation on pain and functional outcome after total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Orthop Surg Res. 2022;17:175. doi:10.1186/s13018-022-03066-9.
3. Calatayud J, Casaña J, Ezzatvar Y, et al. High-intensity preoperative training improves physical and functional recovery in the early post-operative periods after total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2017;25(9):2864-2872. doi:10.1007/s00167-015-3985-8.
4. Radhakrishnan R, Padki A, Han AX, Liu X, Liow MH, Tay DKJ, Yeo SJY, Pang HN, Chen JY. Preoperative range of motion as a predictor of postoperative outcomes in total knee arthroplasty under enhanced recovery after surgery protocols: Defining clinically relevant cut-offs. J Orthop. 2025;66:232-238. doi:10.1016/j.jor.2025.05.026.
5. Bade MJ, Kohrt WM, Stevens-Lapsley JE. Predicting functional performance and range of motion outcomes after total knee arthroplasty. Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2014;93(7):579-585. doi:10.1097/PHM.0000000000000068.
6. Punnoose A, Claydon-Mueller LS, Weiss O, Zhang J, Rushton A, Khanduja V. Prehabilitation for Patients Undergoing Orthopedic Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Netw Open. 2023;6(4):e238050. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.8050.

Episode 78 explains what changes when sleep finally stops controlling your entire day after knee replacement, even before sleep becomes perfect. Michelle describes how energy, patience, participation, and a sense of feeling like yourself often return in small, practical ways as nights improve. The Episode checks back in with Claire and closes the sleep series, then previews a new prehab series beginning in Episode 79.

Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement

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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.

References:

Krenk L, Jennum P, Kehlet H. Sleep disturbances after fast-track hip and knee arthroplasty. Br J Anaesth. 2012;109(5):769-775. doi:10.1093/bja/aes239.

Van Meirhaeghe JP, Delaere O, Van Genechten W, et al. Improvement in sleep patterns after hip and knee arthroplasty: a prospective study in 780 patients. J Arthroplasty. 2021;36(2):442-448. doi:10.1016/j.arth.2020.08.034.

Vitale JA, Bonato M, La Torre A, et al. How do patients sleep after orthopaedic surgery? Changes in actigraphy-based sleep characteristics and pain in patients undergoing hip or knee joint replacement during hospitalisation. Int Orthop. 2023;47(8):1959-1968. doi:10.1007/s00264-023-05862-2.

Zhu Z, Zhu Z, Peng C, et al. Perioperative sleep disturbances in total knee arthroplasty: incidence, mechanisms, and management strategies. J Orthop Surg Res. 2025;20:964. doi:10.1186/s13018-025-06416-5.

Ferrero A, Patrucco F, Marcolin MG, Anzillotti G. Objective sleep disturbance after total hip and knee arthroplasty: a systematic review of wearable-derived metrics and targeted interventions. Arthroplast Today. 2026;39:102013. doi:10.1016/j.artd.2026.102013.

Pettit RJ, Cozart A, Wright D, et al. Total joint arthroplasty and sleep: the state of the evidence. Arthroplast Today. 2024;26:101309. doi:10.1016/j.artd.2024.101309.

Orange 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):1-11. doi:10.2519/jospt.2024.12570.

Episode 77 explores what the research shows about how sleep starts improving after knee replacement and why progress often comes from small adjustments that stack over time. Michelle connects findings from sleep questionnaires, wearable tracking, and overnight sleep studies to four practical areas: swelling timing, routines, positioning, and timing conversations with your provider. Episode 77 also previews Episode 78, which looks at what changes when sleep stops controlling your entire day.

Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement

Total Knee Success Insider

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.

References:

Krenk L, Jennum P, Kehlet H. Sleep disturbances after fast-track hip and knee arthroplasty. Br J Anaesth. 2012;109(5):769-775. doi:10.1093/bja/aes239.

Van Meirhaeghe JP, Delaere O, Van Genechten W, et al. Improvement in sleep patterns after hip and knee arthroplasty: a prospective study in 780 patients. J Arthroplasty. 2021;36(2):442-448. doi:10.1016/j.arth.2020.08.034.

Vitale JA, Bonato M, La Torre A, et al. How do patients sleep after orthopaedic surgery? Changes in actigraphy-based sleep characteristics and pain in patients undergoing hip or knee joint replacement during hospitalisation. Int Orthop. 2023;47(8):1959-1968. doi:10.1007/s00264-023-05862-2.

Zhu Z, Zhu Z, Peng C, et al. Perioperative sleep disturbances in total knee arthroplasty: incidence, mechanisms, and management strategies. J Orthop Surg Res. 2025;20:964. doi:10.1186/s13018-025-06416-5.

Ferrero A, Patrucco F, Marcolin MG, Anzillotti G. Objective sleep disturbance after total hip and knee arthroplasty: a systematic review of wearable-derived metrics and targeted interventions. Arthroplast Today. 2026;39:102013. doi:10.1016/j.artd.2026.102013.

Gong L, Wang Z, Fan D. Sleep quality effects early outcomes after total knee arthroplasty: a randomized, double-blind, controlled study. J Arthroplasty. 2015;30(11):1897-1901. doi:10.1016/j.arth.2015.02.020.

Krenk L, Jennum P, Kehlet H. Postoperative sleep disturbances after zolpidem treatment in fast-track hip and knee replacement. J Clin Sleep Med. 2014;10(3):321-326. doi:10.5664/jcsm.3540.

Bjurström MF, Bohman T, Everson-Rose SA, et al. Promoting sleep to alleviate pain after total joint arthroplasty: protocol for a randomized controlled trial. BMJ Open. 2025;15(7):e099785. doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2024-099785.