Thought I would report how things are going with my new physical therapist. First, she evaluated my issues specifically and felt that I was very close to where I need to be. She identified 2 issued holding me back: continued swelling and the instability of my other knee.
For swelling, she encouraged me to continue icing, did a massage on my knee that definitely reduced the swelling and taught me to do it, and since her techniques are less aggressive, that also helps. She also dropped the exercises focused on strength til we solved the swelling and Rom issues.
She encouraged me to stop walking for exercise and to use a cane and knee brace to support the right knee (still needing repair) when I do walk. She felt that the compensation for the bad knee was keeping me from getting extension in the repaired knee. I am continuing to use my bike to help loosen my knee and get flexion.
On my third session, after her magic massage, I measured 0 for extension and 120 for flexion. Yeah! I can get my second knee done and now have a wonderful therapist for this knee.
For anyone making decisions about having physical therapy, I'd say it can be helpful. IF you find someone with good commnication, some talent at diagnosing what is holding you back, and non-aggresive techniques. Your issues will not be the same as someone else's so your theraspist needs to see you as an individual, not just a generic knee replacement. If you are unhappy, change. I asked my doctor for 3 places to call when I decided to change, then called with my questions.
My opinion is that physical therapy is an art informed by science. Various practitioners will be more skilled at diagnosing problems and communicating with you.