Knee Replacement Surgery Recovery Time

Timeline of Recovery - Knee Replacement Surgery

After a knee replacement surgery, most patients are given a discharge from the hospital after a thorough assessment of their vitals and ruling out any complications. The doctors check the blood pressure of the patient, check if they have any pain, are feeling nauseous, see if they can walk a distance with the help of an assistive device, see if they can get up from a bed or chair on their own, etc., before deciding if the doctor can be discharged from the hospital. Sometimes, the patients are required to stay in the hospital for a longer duration or for a significant part of their recovery process, especially if the patients are old or have any underlying health conditions.

Here’s a week-by-week recovery timeline for patients who’ve had knee replacement surgery:

Week 1 to 3

During the initial weeks of the surgery, patients have to be extra cautious and take proper care of themselves. The routine during this period consists of taking complete rest and doing the exercise suggested by the physiotherapist. It is normal to experience minor pain during these weeks, and the doctor will prescribe medicines to manage the pain after surgery. You may also be asked to use ice packs and elevate your leg as ways to manage pain. It is important for patients to avoid pushing themselves into doing physical activity and give the operated area time to heal. The patients receive physiotherapy during this period, and it is important to do the exercises as directed to improve mobility and range of motion.

By the third week, with constant PT sessions, most patients are able to walk and stand for longer than 10 minutes. Additionally, most patients do not require a walker by the third week and can easily walk around with a cane or no assistance at all.

Week 4 to 6

Patients can see a major improvement in their condition by this stage and are able to bend their knees. There’s also a major reduction in swelling and inflammation. 

In these weeks, the patient’s focus needs to be on improving knee strength and achieving a better range of motion through physical therapy and their own will. The PT helps patients take longer walks during this stage, and patients don’t generally require assistive devices to walk around.

Patients can resume minor daily tasks such as cooking and cleaning, but only with the doctor’s advice. If your work doesn’t require physical labor, you can resume your work. Prolonged sitting isn’t advised at this stage, as it may cause blood clots and further complications. Make sure you keep moving.

Week 7 to 10 

During this stage of recovery, you will find the stiffness, swelling, and pain significantly reduced, and you’ll feel much better from within. You will have to continue physiotherapy during this stage as well, but the PT will now help you improve your mobility and range of motion much more rapidly. Additionally, the therapy will focus on helping you strengthen the knee and the surrounding muscles.

During this stage, the PT may suggest bicycling on a stationary bike, mini squats, toe and heel raises, hip abduction, step-ups, and leg balances. 

Week 11 & 12 

During the final weeks of recovery, you will have much less pain or any other significant discomfort and will be able to resume several activities with much more ease. You’ll achieve a full range of motion during this period of your recovery. The doctor will ask you to continue your exercise. But, you’ll still be asked to refrain from high-impact activities as they may cause knee damage. You must stay committed to your recovery even during this stage. 

After 12 Weeks 

You should note that returning to normal activities completely after a knee replacement surgery can take up to 3 months, and the total recovery can take up to 6 months or even a year. Therefore, even after completing the initial and crucial 12 weeks of recovery after a knee replacement procedure, you must take care of your knee and take your doctor’s advice before resuming your routine activities and starting working out. 

Exercise After Knee Replacement Surgery

While the patients are asked to avoid strenuous exercise after their knee replacement surgery, they’ll have to get regular physiotherapy sessions after the surgery, till their complete range of motion is restored. The exercises are suggested based on the stage of recovery the patient is in, and their overall health.

Exercise & activities in early stages of recovery

In the initial stage of recovery, you may be asked to devote 20 to 30 minutes to exercise, daily. You may feel slightly uncomfortable at first, but you’ll eventually become more comfortable doing the exercises. Some common exercises suggested in this stage to prevent pain and discomfort, and speed up recovery include: 

• Quadriceps Sets
• Straight Leg Raises
• Ankle Pumps
• Knee Straightening Exercises
• Sitting Unsupported Knee Bends
• Bed-Supported Knee Bends
• Sitting Supported Knee Bends

Along with exercising, you will start walking for short distances with assistance. This is considered helpful in strength-building, and promotes healing. Stair climbing and descending may also be suggested as it helps build endurance and strengthens muscles. 

Exercise & activities in advanced stages of recovery

In the advanced stage, most patients regain their independence, and can walk without assistance. The PT may change, or add-up more exercises to the routine to help patients regain their complete range of motion. Some exercises suggested during this phase are as follows: 

• Standing knee bends
• Assisted knee bends
• Knee exercises with resistance
• Exercycling

During this stage, the doctor will push you to walk without any assistance and eventually walk longer distances, do your household chores, and resume other daily activities. But, you’ll still be required to be careful.