Dr. Bas Masri MD, FRCSC professor of Orthopaedics, Vancouver, BC
Orthopedic Knee Replacement (Knee Arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure performed by an orthopedic surgeon to replace damaged parts of the knee joint with artificial components made of metal, plastic, or ceramic materials. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore function when other treatments are no longer effective.
Gordon Bohlmann, BSc (PT), CGIMS, OMT, BSc HMS, Physiotherapist, Vancouver, BC
Typical physiotherapy after knee replacement may include:
- Gentle range-of-motion exercises
- Strengthening exercises
- Walking training
- Balance and stability work
- Swelling management
- Guidance on returning to activities
Physiotherapy can also be beneficial before surgery (“prehabilitation”), as stronger muscles and better mobility beforehand are often associated with a smoother recovery afterward.
For people who have undergone a Knee Replacement Surgery, physiotherapy can help with:
- Reducing pain and stiffness
- Improving knee range of motion (bending and straightening)
- Restoring strength in the quadriceps, hamstrings, and surrounding muscles
- Improving walking and balance
- Helping with stairs, getting up from chairs, and daily activities
- Reducing the risk of complications such as muscle weakness and loss of mobility
Dr. Bas Masri MD, FRCSC professor of Orthopaedics, Vancouver, BC
It’s also common for people to experience emotional challenges during the recovery period itself, including:
- Frustration with slow progress
- Sleep disruption
- Anxiety about pain or mobility
- Temporary low mood or depression
- Feeling isolated or dependent on others
These feelings are frequently reported during the first weeks to months after surgery.
Mental health and knee replacement affect each other in two important ways:
- Before surgery: People who have significant anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges before a knee replacement often report more pain, slower recovery, lower satisfaction, and somewhat worse functional outcomes afterward. This doesn’t mean surgery won’t help—it means mental health is one factor that can influence recovery.
- After surgery: Many patients experience improvements in mood and anxiety as pain decreases and mobility improves following knee replacement. Studies have found reductions in depression and anxiety symptoms after recovery from surgery.
Dr. Bas Masri MD, FRCSC professor of Orthopaedics, Vancouver, BC
Dr. Bas Masri MD, FRCSC professor of Orthopaedics, Vancouver, BC
Dr. Bas Masri MD, FRCSC professor of Orthopaedics, Vancouver, BC
Dr. Maziar Badii, Rheumatologist, Vancouver, BC
Good nutrition can help support healing and improve surgical outcomes:
- Protein: Helps maintain muscle mass and supports tissue repair. Sources include fish, poultry, eggs, dairy, beans, lentils, tofu, and lean meats.
- Vitamin C: Important for collagen formation and wound healing. Found in citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli, and kiwi.
- Iron: Supports red blood cell production and may help reduce the impact of blood loss during surgery. Sources include lean red meat, beans, lentils, spinach, and fortified cereals.
- Vitamin D and Calcium: Essential for bone health. Vitamin D comes from sunlight exposure, fatty fish, fortified foods, and supplements if needed. Calcium is found in dairy products, fortified plant milks, and leafy greens.
- Weight management: If recommended by your healthcare team, gradual weight loss before surgery may reduce stress on the knee and improve recovery.