After total knee replacement, quadricep function decreases secondary to joint effusion and pain. The quadricep muscle assists with straightening of the knee and plays a vital role in most lower extremity activities.
Use of Neuromuscular electrical stimulation 48 hours after surgery in conjunction with physical therapy were shown to have significant effects on muscle strength, functional performance, and active knee extension range of motion especially after 3.5 weeks post surgery.
References:
Stevens Lapsley et al. Early Neuromuscular electrical stimulation to improve quadriceps muscle strength after total knee arthroplasty: a randomized control trial. Physical Therapy February 2012 vol. 92 no. 2 210-226
Use of Neuromuscular electrical stimulation 48 hours after surgery in conjunction with physical therapy were shown to have significant effects on muscle strength, functional performance, and active knee extension range of motion especially after 3.5 weeks post surgery.
References:
Stevens Lapsley et al. Early Neuromuscular electrical stimulation to improve quadriceps muscle strength after total knee arthroplasty: a randomized control trial. Physical Therapy February 2012 vol. 92 no. 2 210-226