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 Total Knee Success Insider 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.