Episode 63 begins a 4-part pain series by explaining what pain actually is after knee replacement and why it can feel confusing. This Episode helps listeners move from fear to confidence by reframing pain as a protective response rather than a direct signal of damage. It also introduces how multiple factors influence pain, setting up the rest of the series.

Get the Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Guide

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, Sharma S, Kim S, Wand BM, Murphy MC. 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.

Goff AJ, Donaldson D, 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):607-619.

Minick KI, Hunter SJ, Capin JJ, Stevens-Lapsley JE, Snow GL, Woodfield D, Dibblee P, Brennan GP. 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):143-151.

Capin JJ, Minick KI, Stevens-Lapsley JE, Snow GL, Woodfield D, Dibblee P, Brennan GP, Hunter SJ. 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.

Na A, Coronado RA, Bini SA, 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. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(6):269-280.

Moseley GL, Butler DS. Explain Pain. 2nd ed. Noigroup Publications; 2015.

Butler DS, Moseley GL. Explain Pain Supercharged. Noigroup Publications; 2017.

In Episode 62, Michelle breaks down what physical therapy actually does after total knee replacement—and why it is much more than just exercises. She explains how physical therapy retrains the nervous system, rebuilds strength, improves movement quality, and guides long-term function. This Episode helps listeners move from passively doing exercises to actively understanding their role in the process. It’s a foundational, myth-busting Episode for anyone preparing for or recovering from knee replacement.

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Support the podcast

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:

Arhos EK, Stevens-Lapsley JE, 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):101-110.

Na A, 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. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(6):269-280.

Duong V, et al. Predictors of Adherence to a Step Count Intervention Following Total Knee Replacement. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):620-629.

Gränicher P, 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 J, 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.

Minick KI, et al. Improved Outcomes Following a Care Guideline Implementation After Total Knee Arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(3):143-151.

Orange GM, 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):1-12.

Goff AJ, et al. Physical Therapists Prioritize Providing Education About Exercise Therapy and to Dispel Misconceptions. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):607-616.

Nunes GS, et al. Are Changes in Dynamic Knee Movement Control Related to Changes in Pain or Function? J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(7):388-401.

Bricca A, et al. Exercise Therapy “Wears Down” My Knee Joint: Myth or Reality? J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(7):463-472.

In Episode 61 of the Total Knee Success podcast, Michelle explains why consistency is more important than intensity after knee replacement. She explores how the body adapts through repeated effort over time and why inconsistent patterns can slow progress. The episode provides a practical framework for building steady improvement and sets up a deeper understanding of physical therapy in the next episode.

Free newsletter: Total Knee Success Insider

Support the podcast

Before surgery? free2weeklaunch

The Knee Replacement Game Plan

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:

Duong V, Hart DL, Stratford PW, et al. Predictors of adherence to a step count intervention following total knee replacement. Phys Ther. 2022;102(3).

Minick KI, DeJong AF, Piva SR, et al. Improved outcomes following care guideline implementation after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(4):1-10.

Capin JJ, Khandha A, Buchanan TS, et al. Variation in outcomes following care guideline implementation after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(4):1-11.

White DK, Tudor-Locke C, Felson DT, et al. A telehealth physical therapy intervention to increase physical activity in adults with knee osteoarthritis. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2025;77(1):45-54.

Gränicher P, Mäder U, Angst F, et al. Prehabilitation improves knee functioning before and within the first year after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(3):1-11.

Clear J. Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones. Avery; 2018.

Fogg BJ. Tiny Habits: The Small Changes That Change Everything. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt; 2019.

Miller WR, Rollnick S. Motivational Interviewing: Helping People Change. 3rd ed. Guilford Press; 2013.

In Episode 60 of the Total Knee Success podcast, Michelle explains why strength plays a central role in outcomes after knee replacement and how muscles drive movement and function after surgery. She clarifies the difference between joint mechanics and muscle capacity, helping listeners understand why progress may feel limited even when the joint is healing well. The episode emphasizes progressive strength building and sets up the importance of consistency in the next episode.

Free newsletter: Total Knee Success Insider

Before surgery? free2weeklaunch

The Knee Replacement Game Plan

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:

Graber P, et al. Expert consensus for the use of outpatient rehabilitation visits after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(6).

Dandis RB, et al. Latent class analysis to predict outcomes of early high-intensity physical therapy after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(10).

Bricca A, et al. Exercise therapy wears down my knee joint: myth or reality? Br J Sports Med. 2025;59(2).

Goff AJ, et al. Physical therapists prioritize providing education about exercise therapy and dispelling misconceptions. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(7).

Gränicher P, et al. Prehabilitation improves knee functioning before and within the first year after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(3).

Minick KI, et al. Improved outcomes following care guideline implementation after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(4).

Capin JJ, et al. Variation in outcomes following care guideline implementation after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2023;53(4).

Orange GM, et al. Physical function following total knee arthroplasty: a longitudinal systematic review. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(1).

In Episode 59 of the Total Knee Success podcast, Michelle explains what actually influences outcomes after knee replacement beyond the surgery itself. She discusses the role of preoperative strength, rehabilitation consistency, movement patterns, overall health, and expectations in shaping results. The episode helps listeners understand how to focus on the factors they can control to support better function and long-term outcomes.

Free newsletter: Total Knee Success Insider

Before surgery? free2weeklaunch

The Knee Replacement Game Plan

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, Scherr J, Swanenburg J, de Bie R. 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.

Minick KI, Hunter SJ, Capin JJ, Stevens-Lapsley JE, Snow G, Woodfield D, Dibblee P, Brennan GP. 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, Snow G, Woodfield D, Dibblee P, Brennan GP, Hunter SJ. 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.

Na A, Coronado RA, Oppermann AL, Jupiter DC, Lindsey BA. Diabetes mellitus blunts the symptoms, physical function, and health-related quality-of-life benefits of total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review with meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(6):269-279.

Orange GM, Hince DA, Travers MJ, Stanton TR, Jones M, Sharma S, Kim S, Wand BM, Murphy MC. Physical function following total knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis: a longitudinal systematic review with meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(1):1-10.

Jette DU, Hunter SJ, Burkett L, Langham B, Long A, Fritz JM, Stevens-Lapsley J, Bade M, Christiansen CL, Meissner P, et al. Physical therapist management of total knee arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2020;100(9):1603-1631.

Dweck CS. Mindset: The new psychology of success. New York, NY: Random House; 2006.

In Episode 58 of the Total Knee Success podcast, Michelle examines the common belief that knee replacements only last about ten years and explains what current research actually shows about implant longevity. She walks through long-term implant performance data, the factors that influence how long an implant lasts, and how to approach timing decisions using both evidence and real-world clinical experience. The episode helps listeners understand how to apply this information to their own situation, supporting more informed and confident decision-making about function, quality of life, and long-term outcomes.

Free newsletter: Total Knee Success Insider

Before surgery? free2weeklaunch

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

Evans JT, Walker RW, Evans JP, Blom AW, Sayers A, Whitehouse MR. How long does a knee replacement last? A systematic review and meta-analysis of case series and national registry reports. Lancet. 2019;393(10172):655-663.

American Physical Therapy Association. Clinical Practice Guideline for Physical Therapist Management of Total Knee Arthroplasty. Phys Ther. 2020;100(9):1603-1631.

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):1-16.

Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry (AOANJRR). Annual Report 2024. Adelaide: AOA; 2024.

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):151-158.

Gränicher M, et al. Prehabilitation improves knee functioning before and within the first year after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):585-596.

Na A, 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. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(6):269-280.

In Episode 57 of the Total Knee Success podcast, Michelle explains why the common phrase “you’ll be back to normal in six weeks” can create unrealistic expectations after knee replacement. She walks listeners through the real phases of process—from early healing to long-term strength rebuilding—and explains how progress continues well beyond the first postoperative milestone. Drawing on current research and clinical rehabilitation insights, the episode helps patients understand why process unfolds over months, not weeks, and how to interpret their progress with greater clarity and confidence.

Get your free newsletter: Total Knee Success Insider

What will you do before surgery? totalkneesuccess.kit.com/free2weeklaunch

The Knee Replacement Game Plan

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

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):1-16.

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):151-158.

Dandis N, Stevens-Lapsley JE, et al. Latent class analysis to predict outcomes of early high-intensity physical therapy after total knee arthroplasty. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(7):362-370.

Na A, 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. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(6):269-280.

Aldhahwani BM, et al. Sociodemographic differences in short-term physical function outcomes after hip and knee arthroplasty in the United States: a scoping review. JOSPT Open. 2025;3(3):254-266.

In Episode 56 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle addresses the common belief that exercise will wear out an arthritic knee joint. She explains how this idea developed, what modern research shows about exercise and cartilage health, and why strengthening and movement are central strategies for managing knee osteoarthritis. The episode also discusses how maintaining activity can support better preparation and recovery for people considering knee replacement.

What will you do before surgery? You need a clear checklist so you know exactly what to prepare, what to expect, and how to set yourself up for a smoother first week after surgery. totalkneesuccess.kit.com/free2weeklaunch

The Knee Replacement Game Plan

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

Bricca A, et al. Exercise therapy “wears down” my knee joint: myth or reality? J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(7):463.

Goff AJ, Donaldson A, de Oliveira Silva D, Crossley KM, Barton CJ. Physical therapists prioritize providing education about exercise therapy and dispelling misconceptions about radiology for people with knee osteoarthritis: a concept mapping study. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2022;52(9):607–618.

White DK, Hinman RS, Liles S, et al. A telehealth physical therapy intervention to increase physical activity in adults with knee osteoarthritis: the Delaware PEAK randomized controlled trial. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(5):377–389.

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.

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.

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):620–629.

Na A, Coronado RA, Bini SA, 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. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(6):269–280.