Why am I feeling hip and back pain after a total knee replacement?

Total knee replacements are pretty common and are expected to become even more so in the next few years. They’re most often performed on people who suffer from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, and anyone who has a traumatic knee injury. 

Although total knee replacements are meant to relieve chronic knee pain, they may actually end up causing hip and back pain. If this applies to you, keep reading for information on possible causes and the most effective treatments.

Is it normal to feel hip and back pain after a total knee replacement?

Yes, it is normal to feel hip and back pain after a total knee replacement. The nerves in the back and hips are the same nerves that run through the knees. When a nerve is affected in the knee during a knee replacement procedure, this can cause pain in the hip and back. It typically goes away with time on its own, but in cases where hip and back pain linger, this may be the result of something more serious. For some people, it may indicate nerve damage or an infection. 

What are some of the causes of hip and back pain after a total knee replacement?

• Gait changes — One of the causes of hip and back pain after a total knee replacement is gait change. After your knee replacement, you may begin to walk differently. Changes in how you walk, or your gait, may cause you to experience muscle strain or joint pain. This is because when you change the mechanics of the way you walk, the muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments in other areas of your body all have to compensate. They may eventually become irritated, inflamed, strained and even torn with overuse. If your gait changes after your knee replacement and it causes hip and back pain, you can find treatment at a physical therapy clinic. Physical therapists can help you correct your gait changes and any muscle imbalances that may be related to your hip and back pain after your total knee replacement.
• Osteoarthritis — Osteoarthritis is one of the leading conditions that necessitate knee replacement. It’s a type of joint inflammation that often affects the hands, hips and knees. 
• Nerve irritation — Nerve irritation or inflammation may be another cause of hip and back pain after a total knee replacement. When the nerves connected to the knee through the hip and back become aggravated during surgery, it may be felt throughout other regions of the body.

What helps ease hip and back pain after a total knee replacement?

• Rest.
• Ice packs.
• Elevation.
• Compression.
• Pain medication.
• Physical therapy.

Why should you see a physical therapist before and after your total knee replacement?

Physical therapy is always a good option for dealing with a total knee replacement. It can be effective when completed before a procedure and even after a procedure too. It can be beneficial even years after a procedure! If you’re getting a total knee replacement, you’ll want to consider physical therapy to help you build muscle strength before your surgery. That way, you’ll lose less muscle mass during the healing process and you may be able to spend less time in the hospital before going home. If you’ve already had a total knee replacement, physical therapy can help speed up the recovery process as well as ensure that you gain the most range of motion, flexibility and strength possible. If you’ve had a procedure several years prior and you’re currently experiencing stiffness in that area, PT can help break up some of that scar tissue you may have. Physical therapists can expertly address back, hip and even shin pain related to a procedure like a total knee replacement, which is why you shouldn’t hesitate to seek care today.

Alliance PTP is ready to help you find top-notch PT for your hip and back pain after your total knee replacement

Don’t suffer with unnecessary pain any longer. At Alliance Physical Therapy Partners, we’re proudly bringing together physical therapy practices across the country to help people get the high-quality PT they need. 

Want to see a physical therapist in person? We can put you in touch with an Alliance PTP partner that’s close to you and that can help you address your hip and back pain after your total knee replacement. 

Not keen on in-person PT sessions or not close to an Alliance PTP partner? No worries. We also offer effective and affordable virtual physical therapy through our Agile Virtual Physical Therapy platform. 

Come find help for your injury or chronic condition today!