Episode 75: Why Sleep Becomes So Difficult After Knee Replacement (Pain, Nervous System Alertness, and Why Your Brain Will Not Fully Shut Off)

Episode 86: Comparing Yourself to Other Knee Replacement Patients (Why Someone Else’s Recovery Story Is Rarely a Useful Benchmark)

Episode 86 explores why comparing yourself to other knee replacement patients can create confusion and discouragement. Michelle explains why friend stories, neighbor stories, and online posts often leave out important context such as starting strength, medical history, rehabilitation needs, goals, and surgeon guidance. This Episode also discusses why pain memories can be imperfect and why unsolicited advice is rarely a substitute for guidance from your surgeon or physical therapist. Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement [https://amzn.to/3QQ2iFi] Total Knee Success Insider [https://totalkneesuccess.kit.com/becomeaninsider?_gl=1*18lj5ab*_gcl_au*MTE1MjY0OTYzLjE3NzA2ODQyNzEuNjk4MzU5MDI5LjE3NzQyMTk2NTguMTc3NDIyNDYwNg..] totalkneesuccess.com [http://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: 1. 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):1-11. doi:10.2519/jospt.2024.12570 2. Noel M, Rabbitts JA, Tai GG, Palermo TM. Remembering pain after surgery: a longitudinal examination of the role of pain catastrophizing in children’s and parents’ recall. Pain. 2015;156(5):800-808. doi:10.1097/j.pain.0000000000000102 3. Smith J, Goodnow JJ. Unasked-for support and unsolicited advice: age and the quality of social experience. Psychol Aging. 1999;14(1):108-121. doi:10.1037//0882-7974.14.1.108 4. Feng B, MacGeorge EL. Relationship closeness predicts unsolicited advice giving in supportive interactions. J Soc Pers Relat. 2016;33(6):751-767. doi:10.1177/0265407515592262 5. Na A, Coronado RA, Allen DD, 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 6. Graber JS, Bade MJ, MacLeod TD, 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):566-575. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11840 7. Roush JR, Heick JD, McGonagle TJ, 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):240-245. doi:10.2519/josptopen.2024.0919

Episode 85: What Most People Get Wrong About Recovery Timelines (Why the Calendar Doesn’t Always Match the Experience)

Episode 85 explores why common knee replacement milestones, including six weeks, three months, and one year, can be useful reference points but poor personal deadlines. Michelle explains why progress after total knee replacement varies from person to person. She also discusses why function, walking, strength, endurance, and daily activity are often more meaningful than a date on the calendar. The episode encourages listeners to consider individual progress rather than comparing themselves to standard timelines. Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement [https://amzn.to/3QQ2iFi] Total Knee Success Insider [https://totalkneesuccess.kit.com/becomeaninsider?_gl=1*18lj5ab*_gcl_au*MTE1MjY0OTYzLjE3NzA2ODQyNzEuNjk4MzU5MDI5LjE3NzQyMTk2NTguMTc3NDIyNDYwNg..] totalkneesuccess.com [http://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: 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):1-11. doi:10.2519/jospt.2024.12570 Kennedy DM, Stratford PW, Riddle DL, Hanna SE, Gollish JD. Assessing recovery and establishing prognosis following total knee arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2008;88(1):22-32. doi:10.2522/ptj.20070051 Conner-Spady BL, Marshall DA, Bohm E, et al. Patient expectations and satisfaction 6 and 12 months following total hip and knee replacement. Qual Life Res. 2020;29(3):705-719. doi:10.1007/s11136-019-02359-7 Na A, Coronado RA, Allen DD, 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 Graber JS, Bade MJ, MacLeod TD, 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):566-575. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11840 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. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11563 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):151-158. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11564

Episode 84: Five More Things That Can Make Weeks Two Through Six After Knee Replacement Easier (The Tools Patients Tell Me They Were Glad They Had)

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. Top 5 Products for the First Two Weeks [https://amzn.to/4eV7dxU] Next 5 Products for Weeks 3-6 GEAR GUIDE [https://amzn.to/4b58hwP] Total Knee Success Insider [https://totalkneesuccess.kit.com/becomeaninsider?_gl=1*18lj5ab*_gcl_au*MTE1MjY0OTYzLjE3NzA2ODQyNzEuNjk4MzU5MDI5LjE3NzQyMTk2NTguMTc3NDIyNDYwNg..] totalkneesuccess.com [http://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: 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: Five Things That Make the First Two Weeks After Knee Replacement Easier (The Items Patients Tell Me They Used the Most)

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. Top 5 Products for the First Two Weeks [https://amzn.to/4eV7dxU] Total Knee Success Insider [https://totalkneesuccess.kit.com/becomeaninsider?_gl=1*18lj5ab*_gcl_au*MTE1MjY0OTYzLjE3NzA2ODQyNzEuNjk4MzU5MDI5LjE3NzQyMTk2NTguMTc3NDIyNDYwNg..] totalkneesuccess.com [http://totalkneesuccess.com] Free 2-Week Launch [https://totalkneesuccess.kit.com/free2weeklaunch] 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: Prehab for Worriers and Warriors (How to Get Ready So the First Two Weeks Go Better)

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. Free 2-Week Launch Plan [https://totalkneesuccess.kit.com/free2weeklaunch] totalkneesuccess.com [http://totalkneesuccess.com] Browse recommended products [https://a.co/d/04ToEN7f] 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.