Total Knee Arthroplasty Guidelines
The information below is meant as a guideline only. The professional skills of a therapist must come into play for each individual patient.
Dr. Chris Evensen
PHASE ONE
0-2 WEEKS*
WEIGHT BEARING/PRECAUTIONS
WBAT
Watch incision for redness, temp., draining.
ROM/GOALS
Wk one – 0°-90°,
Wk two – 0°-110°
EXERCISES**
Ankle pumps, Knee ext with bolster, quad sets, SLF, SAQ, sup heel slides>chair heel slides>wall heel slides, manual ROM/STM, gait progress to ½ mile, sit to stand.
PHASE TWO
3-6 WEEKS*
WEIGHT BEARING/PRECAUTIONS
WBAT
Fall prevention, watch incision.
ROM/GOALS
ROM 0°-125°
EXERCISES**
Progress to multi-directional step-ups/downs, star balance, step training, TKE w/ TB, balance board, gastroc strengthening, hip strengthening, bike, leg press, hamstring curls, manual ROM/STM, progress to single balance.
PHASE THREE
6-12 WEEKS*
WEIGHT BEARING/PRECAUTIONS
WBAT
No lifting > 50#.
ROM/GOALS
ROM at least – 0°-125°
No ROM > 130° ✓.
Normal Gait.
Reciprocal gait on stairs.
Ⓘ ADLs.
Floor → Stand Transfers.
EXERCISES**
Continue therapeutic exercise for strength, balance, neuro reeducation, therapeutic activities, return to normal function.
Emphasize home program for continued overall health, activity balance, with health lifestyle.
