Successful outcomes after total or partial knee replacement surgery depend as much on rehabilitation as they do on the surgery itself. At Melbourne CBD Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine, we provide specialist post-surgical rehabilitation for knee replacement patients, guided by our Kineo isokinetic strength testing technology and evidence-based protocols.
Our clinic is led by Dr. Tim Sayer, a physiotherapist with a PhD in knee injury and rehabilitation. His research expertise ensures your recovery is driven by objective data and the most current evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Knee replacement rehabilitation begins in hospital the day after surgery and continues in outpatient physiotherapy for 3–6 months or more. The goals are to:
Both total knee replacement (TKR) and unicompartmental knee replacement (partial/UKR) require structured rehabilitation. Research shows that patients who complete formal physiotherapy have significantly better outcomes than those who exercise independently.
Frequently Asked Questions
At Melbourne CBD Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine, we use our Kineo isokinetic dynamometer to objectively measure your quadriceps and hamstring strength at key milestones. This allows us to:
Our rehabilitation program is progressive and individualised, taking into account your age, fitness level, surgical approach, and return-to-activity goals.
Dr. Tim Sayer is Co-Director of Melbourne CBD Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine. He holds a Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT) and a PhD with a specific research focus on knee injury and rehabilitation. He is an Honorary Senior Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne and a member of Team ACL.
Tim has extensive experience working with patients following knee replacement surgery and understands what it takes to achieve the best possible outcome. His research-driven approach ensures your rehabilitation is both safe and effective.
Our team look forward to working with you to help achieve your goals
Quadriceps strengthening is the most critical component. Specific exercises include quadriceps sets, straight leg raises, heel slides, and progressive resistance training. Your physiotherapist will prescribe a program tailored to your recovery stage.
Most patients are walking without aids within 4–6 weeks. Full rehabilitation — including return to recreational activities — typically takes 3–6 months. Some patients continue to improve for up to 12 months post-surgery.
Quadriceps strengthening is the most critical component. Specific exercises include quadriceps sets, straight leg raises, heel slides, and progressive resistance training. Your physiotherapist will prescribe a program tailored to your recovery stage.
No. You can book directly without a referral. If you have a GP management plan (GPMP), you may be eligible for Medicare-rebated physiotherapy sessions. Your orthopaedic surgeon may also refer you directly to our clinic.
Our Knee Clinic Melbourne CBD specialises in post-surgical knee rehabilitation, including total and partial knee replacement recovery. Led by Tim Sayer, Director and Senior Physiotherapist, the clinic delivers structured, evidence-based rehabilitation programs to help you regain strength, mobility, and confidence after knee replacement surgery.
