One step at a time: physiotherapy management following medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty – a case report

Abstract

This case report describes the rehabilitation of a 57-year-old male following medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). After four weeks of unsupervised home-based exercises, he presented with reduced knee flexion, quadriceps weakness, low confidence, and difficulty with stair climbing and sit-to-stand activities. A structured outpatient physiotherapy program focusing on mobility, strength, gait, and functional training was implemented. Over six weeks, the patient showed significant improvements in pain, range of motion, muscle strength, kinesiophobia, and functional performance, ultimately returning to work independently. This case highlights the value of supervised, individualized rehabilitation even when initiated later in the recovery phase.