Episode 81: Prehab for Low Stamina (Steps, Pacing, and Building Capacity Before Surgery)

Episode 88: Has Your Knee Replacement Progress Stalled? (Why Plateaus Are More Common Than You Think)

Episode 88 explores why progress after knee replacement can sometimes feel as though it has stalled, even when meaningful improvements are still taking place. Michelle explains why plateaus are common, how to distinguish a temporary slowdown from symptoms that deserve medical attention, and why looking at progress over weeks instead of days provides a much clearer picture. Episode 88 helps listeners understand that slower progress doesn’t necessarily mean they’ve reached the end of what they’re capable of achieving. 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, 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):1-18. Graber CJ, Stevens-Lapsley JE, 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):566-577. 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. Gränicher P, Mulder L, Lenssen T, 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.

Episode 87: Five Signs You're Making Progress After Knee Replacement (Looking Beyond the Calendar)

Episode 87 explores five practical signs that you're making meaningful progress after knee replacement, even when the calendar leaves you questioning how you're doing. Michelle explains why improvements in walking, stair climbing, sleep, everyday activities, and growing independence provide a much clearer picture of functional progress than simply counting weeks after surgery. You'll come away with a practical way to recognize the meaningful changes that gradually make everyday life easier. 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: Gränicher P, Mulder L, Lenssen T, 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. Graber CJ, Stevens-Lapsley JE, 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):566-577. 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. 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):1-18.

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.