Recovery and rehabilitation
Return to activities you love!
Following your knee replacement surgery, your surgeon may decide that physical therapy is right for you, in which case specialized personnel will manage your recovery by defining the most suitable rehabilitation program for you. They will work with you throughout the gradual recovery process to help you regain knee mobility and increase your quality of life.
Knee replacement recovery
Knee replacement recovery time may be different for each person and vary according to individual condition and surgeon protocol.
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Temporary knee replacement pain is a natural part of the healing process. Do not be overly concerned if this happens, as your body is adjusting to your new knee prosthesis.
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Different types of medication are available to assist with knee pain relief during your knee replacement recovery. Your surgeon will work with you to choose the best option for short-term knee pain relief, which may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Knee replacement rehabilitation
Knee replacement rehabilitation, or knee replacement rehab, can be started as soon as the day of the operation, subject to your surgeon’s approval. If needed a physical therapist will provide you with specialized knee rehabilitation exercises to strengthen your leg and restore knee movement so you may resume walking and other daily activities
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When returning home after surgery, promote healing by continuing to take your medications and exercising as recommended by your medical team. Most people can resume normal routine activities within the first 3 to 6 weeks after their total knee replacement surgery.
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When fully recovered, the majority of individuals who have joint replacement surgery experience a reduction in joint pain and an improvement in their ability to participate in daily activities.
More than 90–95% of knee replacements are still functioning well even after 15–20 years
Knee replacement rehabilitation: Dos and Don'ts
Your commitment to your recovery plays a key role in the success of your knee surgery. Proper in-home care following total knee replacement is an important part of knee rehabilitation and healing.
Do ask for assistance in the weeks following your knee replacement surgery
Do get lots of rest and do your assigned exercises
Do contact your medical team if you have any questions or concerns
Don’t overdo your assigned knee rehab exercises
Do not make sudden movements
Do not play sports