Following the replacement surgery for my knee joint, I’ve tried physical therapy and a special splint to stretch my knee. I just don’t seem to be getting any more movement in my knee. What are my options now?

If you’re not getting improved knee movement after aggressive physical therapy and the splint, your doctor may recommend a procedure called manipulation under anesthesia. This involves a forceful stretch of the knee while you’re asleep from anesthesia. This treatment is designed to break up scar tissue and improve knee motion. Patients usually resume physical therapy after manipulation.

If you still don’t have better movement in your knee, additional surgery may be suggested. Choices include surgery using an arthroscope to remove scar tissue followed by a forcefull stretch of the knee. Less commonly, surgeons may need to revise or replace the parts of the prosthesis.