Whether you’ve just had knee replacement surgery or you’re getting ready for it, knowing what to expect after your procedure can help you feel more prepared and may even make your recovery easier. Knee replacements are considered one of the most successful surgeries, but it’s important to remember that recovery is different for everyone. Here are some factors that may affect your recovery timeline:
- Age
- Activity level prior to surgery
- Following your physical therapy planÂ
- Infection or other complications
- Other health conditions
How long does it take to recover?
Studies suggest that most people can get back to their normal activities (going up and down stairs, taking longer walks, etc.) in about three months after knee replacement surgery. But it may take six months to a year to fully build back your strength and energy you had prior to surgery. While recovery time frames vary from person to person, working with a licensed physical therapist can offer guidance and tools to gain back mobility and strength in your knee, and also help you track your progress to make sure your recovery is on the right path.
1 to 2 weeks after surgery
This will probably be your biggest adjustment because you will probably require a lot of assistance (even with standing). Even though your knee may be stiff and hurting, gentle movements like bending are important for your recovery. You’ll likely work with a physical therapist to come up with a comprehensive recovery plan that may include different treatment methods. Depending on your mobility, your physical therapist may offer different at-home stretching techniques and exercises to increase your knee strength and mobility.
3 to 6 weeks after surgery
If you’ve been keeping up with your stretching and strengthening exercises, you may be ready to move from a walker to a cane. This means you’re getting stronger and able to stand for longer periods with less assistance. Each time you meet with your physical therapist, they will evaluate your progress and see how they can continue to support your recovery. At this stage they may consider incorporating additional treatment options to go along with your therapeutic exercises, such as:
6 weeks and beyondÂ
At this stage, you may have reached a few milestones, like being able to submerge your knee in water (if your incision healed properly) and even driving. Your doctor may even clear you to go back to work with modified duties (no heavy lifting) and temporary work accommodations. Harvard doctors say it’s important to keep doing physical therapy for at least three months to help your knee gain strength and mobility, and even up to a year for a full recovery.Â
REPAIR SI can support your recovery from knee replacement surgery
Ready to meet with a physical therapist at REPAIR SI to start finding relief? Learn what to expect during your first appointment here.Â
Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial evaluation.