Personal Training After Total Knee Replacement

Transitioning from Physical Therapy to Personal Training for Continued Rehabilitation Following Total Knee Replacement

Total knee replacement (TKR), also known as total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure often performed to alleviate pain and improve mobility in individuals with severe knee arthritis or injury. Post-operative rehabilitation is crucial for achieving optimal outcomes and restoring function. Physical therapy (PT) has traditionally been the primary modality for rehabilitation after TKR. However, as patients progress in their recovery, transitioning from formal PT sessions to a personalized exercise regimen under the guidance of a certified personal trainer (CPT) can provide sustained benefits and long-term well-being.

During the immediate post-surgery phase, the focus is very much on pain management, swelling reduction, and early joint mobilization. Passive and active range of motion exercises to prevent stiffness and improve joint function are often employed as well as gait training with assistive devices to restore proper walking mechanics. It is important to note that not all TKR rehab progress is the same – some patients will rebound more quickly than others and some may experience setbacks. It is important to be mindful that not all progress can be linear but that staying the course, making necessary adjustments and remaining consistent is key to a favorable surgical outcome.

Once an individual has successfully moved through the immediate post-surgery phase and is, in the estimation of their surgeon after follow-up exam, progressive strengthening exercises targeting quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles to enhance knee stability can begin. This phase typically involves single joint range of motion exercises as well as eccentric and isometric loading above and below the knee with a focus on integration, balance and progressive increases in capacity. It is typical in the phase to also incorporate some neuromuscular re-education for improved proprioception and functional activities simulation to promote daily life skills and activities, such as balancing on one foot while reaching away from the midline, using stairs and even driving.

During the advanced rehabilitation phase, dynamic exercises to improve muscle endurance and joint flexibility are introduced that involve more of the kinetic chain and enhance functional capacity. The patient will also begin/resume some cardiovascular conditioning to enhance overall fitness and cardiovascular health, within the boundaries of the specific patient’s abilities. 

Beyond the advanced phase, a gradual return to higher-level activities, such as recreational sports or hobbies can be considered and integrated into the patient’s daily activities. It is at this point that the patient may choose to seek the services of a qualified Personal Trainer to continue the rehab process. Once a patient has completed the advanced phase of rehabilitation, they are typically released from Physical Therapy and can continue receiving individualized care by working with a Personal Trainer. Personal trainers can tailor exercise programs to each patient’s specific needs, addressing any remaining imbalances or weaknesses. Tailored workouts developed and implemented by a trainer can help ensure a gradual and safe progression toward functional goals.

The collaboration between Physical Therapists and Personal Trainers requires open communication between therapist and trainer which will ensure continuity of care and continued progress. Sharing patient milestones, limitations, and goals will help facilitate a smooth transition. To that end, here are a few important points to consider:

Complementary approaches: Physical therapists address any residual impairments or specific issues requiring therapeutic interventions. Personal trainers focus on optimizing overall fitness, functional movements, and lifestyle habits.

Team Approach to Rehabilitation: Collaborative efforts enhance patient outcomes and improve the likelihood of achieving long-term rehabilitation goals. This ensures a comprehensive approach to recovery, encompassing both physical and lifestyle aspects.

When it comes to designing the Personal Training program, there are a few very necessary steps to include:

An initial assessment/evaluation of the patient’s current fitness level, strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular capacity and identifying any specific limitations, concerns, or areas requiring special attention.

Once the assessment is complete, goal setting can commence and establish short-term and long-term goals aligned with the patient’s desires and functional aspirations. These goals may include pain reduction, improved mobility, weight management, or participation in specific activities.

After goal setting it is time to create the Exercise Prescription where the Trainer develops and implements a structured exercise regimen targeting muscle strength, endurance, cardiovascular fitness, and flexibility. The exercise prescription should iIncorporate a variety of exercises to maintain engagement and prevent plateaus.

From there, progression and monitoring become the focus. Over time, gradually advancing the intensity, duration, and complexity of exercises as the patient’s capabilities improve and then regular reassessment to track progress and make necessary adjustments.

At all points in the process it is critical to ensure safety and avoid complications. It is important for the Trainer to have a working knowledge of surgical procedures and  a basic understanding of TKR surgery, potential complications, and restrictions. Additionally, Personal trainers should be aware of any contraindications or precautions related to the patient’s TKR surgery.

Regular communication and updates should be shared with the patient’s orthopedic surgeon or physical therapist to address any concerns or modifications as the patient continues through the rehabilitation journey. In the event of a setback, proper referrals should be made to remedy any issues – we want our TKR patients to thrive and a multidisciplinary approach in all phases of rehab is critical to optimize surgical outcomes,

 

Final Thoughts

In closing, Personal Trainers can address overall fitness including cardiovascular health, muscle strength, flexibility, and body composition. With an emphasis on lifestyle changes and maintaining an active routine beyond the rehabilitation phase, patients often rebound from surgery in a better place than where they were prior to their joint replacement. Beyond the actual physical exercises part of the patient’s return to full function, Personal trainers provide ongoing support, motivation, guidance and encourage adherence to a proper exercise and lifestyle program. 

The transition from physical therapy to personal training for continuing rehabilitation following total knee replacement represents a logical and effective progression in a patient’s recovery journey. While physical therapy provides a foundation for early post-operative rehabilitation, personal training offers a tailored and holistic approach to long-term wellness, emphasizing overall fitness, motivation, and empowerment. The collaboration between physical therapists and personal trainers ensures a comprehensive and coordinated approach to rehabilitation, promoting optimal outcomes and improved quality of life for individuals who have undergone total knee replacement.

 

https://sportssurgeryclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/TKR-Protocol-Final.pdf

https://www.physio-pedia.com/Total_Knee_Arthroplasty

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7462050/

https://www.exercise.com/grow/how-to-train-clients-with-a-knee-replacement/

https://blog.nasm.org/fitness/working-with-clients-following-a-knee-replacement