Every recovery is individual, and I'll give you a plan built around your surgery and your goals. Still, it helps to know the typical path. These milestones follow the guidance from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.1
The first hours
Most patients begin exercising the knee within hours of surgery, and walk with a walker, crutches or cane soon after. Early movement is one of the most important things you can do.
Going home
Some patients go home the same day. Others stay overnight in the hospital. Which is right for you depends on your health and the support you have at home, and we'll decide it together before surgery.
The first several weeks
Plan to have help at home with cooking, shopping, bathing and laundry for several weeks. Some pain with activity and at night is common during this time. Your physical therapy exercises are the engine of your recovery, so keep at them.
Three to six weeks
Most people resume normal daily activities within 3 to 6 weeks. Driving usually returns at about 4 to 6 weeks, once your knee bends enough to sit comfortably in the car and your muscle control is good enough to brake safely.
The months ahead
Strength and confidence keep improving for months. Walking, swimming, golf, biking, light hiking and dancing are realistic long-term goals. I recommend low-impact options like the elliptical and swimming, and limiting running and jumping to protect the new joint. You can read more in Life after joint replacement.
Partial knee recovery
Recovery after a partial knee replacement is usually quicker. Patients typically spend little or no time in the hospital, put weight on the knee right away, and return to regular daily activities by about 6 weeks.2
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Total knee replacement. OrthoInfo.
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Unicompartmental knee replacement. OrthoInfo.
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Talk with your surgeon about your own situation.