Role of physiotherapy in post-operative knee stiffness: A literature review

Abstract

Objectives: Restricted motion range, also known as knee stiffness, is one of the significant complications after intra-articular or extra-articular injury. Postoperatively, it is primarily due to articular fibrosis (intra and extra) and scarring adhesions in the quadriceps-femoral apparatus after ligament reconstruction, patellar tendon repair, burn, and total knee arthroplasty. Knee stiffness is both preventable and treatable with physiotherapy treatment. Physiotherapy includes electrotherapy and exercises therapy playing an important role in reduction of knee stiffness. The aim of the present study to survey the existing literature related to exercise therapy and electrotherapy programs for the management of post-operative knee stiffness. Materials and Methods: A computerized search of the ELSEVIER, PubMed, and Medline database was conducted for year 2008 onward. The search was performed using English language. Results: Based on the literature survey undertaken, the best approach for efficient recovery is to plan and start treatment regime preoperatively that should be continued until achieving knee symmetry postoperatively. Conclusion: The findings of the current study support that both electrotherapy and exercise interventions play a significant role to overcome the consequences of post-operative knee stiffness. In addition to it, literature enlightens that advanced techniques such as unique sustained method and Graston technique are much more beneficial and advantageous over traditional and conventional methods of physiotherapy treatment to manage post-operative knee stiffness.