Your Guide to Knee Replacement Recovery
Knee replacement surgery is one of the most common orthopedic surgeries in the United States. Hundreds of thousands of patients receive surgery every year and that number is expected to continue to grow.
Even though it is a common surgery, if you do not know what to expect, the uncertainty can cause anxiety.
As you are considering knee replacement surgery, this article will help you understand the timeline of recovery and what to expect:
- How long will recovery take?
- What will the first few weeks feel like?
- Are there side effects you should watch for?
Everyone’s journey is different but knowing what’s ahead can help you feel prepared and confident.
What is Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery replaces damaged or worn knee structures with artificial parts, often metal or plastic. It helps reduce pain and restore movement for people with arthritis, injury, or joint damage that no longer responds to other treatments.
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What to Expect After Knee Replacement Surgery
Depending on your needs, you could stay in the hospital for 1–3 days. However, modern medicine, physicians like to get you moving as soon as possible. In many cases, you will go home after knee replacement surgery the same day. Right after surgery, you will begin walking and might even climb stairs.
You’ll begin physical therapy early, sometimes within 24 hours. Pain will be strongest in the first 2–3 days and gradually improve.
Typical post-op milestones:
- Standing with assistance as soon as possible or at least within 24 hours
- First walk with a walker or crutches
- Opioid pain relievers for 2–4 weeks, then transition to NSAIDs/acetaminophen
- Swelling, bruising, and stiffness around the knee
- Beginning simple physical therapy exercises (ankle pumps, heel slides)
- Hospital discharge once safe mobility is demonstrated
Week-by-Week Knee Replacement Recovery Timeline
Recovery happens in phases. This timeline shows common patterns, but your care team will personalize your plan.
Early Recovery (0–6 Weeks)
- Pain & meds: Most intense pain in first 2–3 days; opioid use tapers by week 3–4.
- Mobility: Short, frequent walks with walker/cane; able to walk short distances unaided by end of this phase.
- Range of motion: 90° knee bend by 2 weeks, 110° by 6 weeks is common.
- Other notes: Some numbness near incision is expected; stiffness at night is common.
Intermediate Recovery (6–12 Weeks)
- Mobility: Cane or no assistive device; able to walk longer distances comfortably.
- Range of motion: Often reaches 120°+.
- Activities: Return to light daily routines (driving, desk work, errands).
- Therapy: Focus on strengthening quadriceps, hamstrings, and balance.
Advanced Recovery (12 Weeks–1 Year)
- Function: Low impact exercise (walking, cycling, swimming) encouraged.
- Strength: Muscles continue to rebuild; swelling/stiffness may linger after activity.
- Full recovery: By 6–12 months, most patients achieve stable strength and motion.
Factors Affecting Recovery
- Age & health: Diabetes or heart conditions may slow recovery.
- Weight: Added stress can extend timelines.
- Pre-surgery fitness: Stronger muscles pre-op help speed recovery.
- Consistency with PT: Patients who follow physical therapy plans recover faster.
- Support at home: Safety prep and caregiver help reduce complications.
Knee Replacement Side Effects: What’s Normal & When to Call a Doctor
Common, expected side effects:
- Swelling, bruising, or warmth around the knee
- Skin numbness near incision
- Stiffness or soreness, especially at night
- Fatigue after physical therapy
- Constipation (often from pain meds and low activity)
Concerning side effects (call your doctor):
- Fever, spreading redness, or drainage from incision
- Severe calf pain or swelling (possible clot)
- Numbness or tingling that worsens
- Pain that increases instead of decreases over time
For more detail on pain patterns, see when you should worry about pain after knee surgery.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
- Take medications exactly as prescribed; taper safely with your provider.
- Set a realistic daily pain goal with your care team.
- Use ice/cryotherapy and elevate your leg to reduce swelling.
- Prepare your home with clear walkways, grab bars, and seating at the right height.
- Keep moving—short walks are better than long periods of rest.
- Eat protein-rich meals (meat, beans, dairy, soy) at every meal to support healing.
- Stay hydrated with at least 8 cups of fluid daily; limit sugary drinks.
- Include high-fiber foods to help prevent constipation.
- Ask your doctor if supplements like multivitamins, calcium, or vitamin D are right for you.
- Stay consistent with physical therapy. Key exercises include ankle pumps, quad sets, straight leg raises, and gentle knee bends.
- Practice breathing exercises (incentive spirometer) to lower pneumonia risk.
- Don’t ignore mental health—support groups and journaling can help.
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Common Questions about Knee Replacement Surgery
Most patients reach major milestones within 3–6 months, such as walking longer distances and returning to daily activities. Full recovery and lasting strength may take up to one year.
These procedures are less invasive, so patients often experience quicker mobility and less swelling. However, physical therapy remains just as important for regaining strength and flexibility.
Partial replacements typically cause fewer side effects like stiffness or numbness, but risks such as infection or blood clots can occur with both.
Titanium and other materials are used in knee implants, but recovery time and the rehabilitation process are generally the same regardless of the material.
Yes. Building leg strength before surgery, maintaining a healthy weight, controlling conditions like diabetes, and preparing your home with safety features can all improve recovery outcomes.
Physical therapy usually begins within hours of surgery. A therapist or nurse will help you sit up, stand, and start simple exercises to improve circulation and prevent complications.
Most patients start with clear liquids shortly after surgery. If tolerated, they move to full liquids and then back to their usual diet within a day or two. The care team will guide you based on your recovery.
Most patients see their surgeon within 1–2 weeks after surgery. Some receive several home health visits before transitioning to outpatient therapy. The exact plan depends on your mobility, home support, and overall progress.
Why People Choose CHRISTUS for Knee Replacement Surgery
When knee pain slows you down, the right care can help you move freely again, with less pain, more confidence, and support that feels personal every step of the way.
- Trusted care from the first appointment to recovery: You’re supported by a team that follows proven safety standards, so your care feels clear, consistent, and reliable.
- Surgeons who listen and personalize your plan: Fellowship-trained specialists take time to understand your goals and help you feel ready for what’s next.
- Smaller incisions. Faster healing: Minimally invasive and robotic-assisted options aim to reduce pain, shorten recovery, and get you moving sooner.
- Education and support: Pre-surgery classes, clear discharge planning, and a team that’s there to guide you, not rush you.
- Expert care, close to home: With local clinics and surgery centers, it’s easier to get the care you need without going far.
Find a CHRISTUS Orthopedics Clinic Near You
Get started on your knee recovery with care close to home.
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