How long after knee replacement do you start rehab?
Asked by: Miss Shyanne Schamberger DVM | Last update: October 3, 2025Score: 4.4/5 (9 votes)
How soon do you start therapy after knee replacement?
Remember to start outpatient physical therapy as soon as possible after you go home (usually within one week of surgery). Your physical therapist will help guide you through these and other exercises. Ankle Pumps: This strengthens your calf muscles in your lower leg.
What is the hardest day after knee replacement?
What Are The Hardest Days After Knee Replacement? The first two to three weeks post-op are the hardest days after knee replacement.
How many days rest is required after knee replacement?
It usually takes around a year to recover fully after a knee replacement. But you should be able to resume most of your usual activities six weeks after surgery. Your recovery time will depend on several factors, including your: Activity level before surgery.
Does stiffness ever go away after knee replacement?
The duration of post-surgery stiffness varies from person to person. On average, patients may experience stiffness for several weeks to a few months after knee replacement surgery. It's important to note that this period is a transient phase that gradually improves with time and proper rehabilitation.
Knee Replacement Rehab - What to Expect After Your Surgery
What is the biggest complaint after knee replacement?
One of the most commonly reported issues after knee replacement surgery is residual stiffness or limited range of motion. This underscores the importance of regular rehabilitation exercises.
What are the five mistakes people make after knee replacement?
- doing too much too soon.
- skipping your physio routine.
- ignoring severe pain or complications.
- forgetting about wound care and medication.
- going it alone.
How long does it take to walk normally after total knee replacement?
Most people are able to walk without a walker or cane about six weeks after knee replacement surgery. Recovery is different for everyone.
Should I force my knee to bend after knee replacement?
Make sure not to force your new knee into a position that causes you pain or discomfort. Lie on your stomach, with your legs straight. Bend 1 leg, lifting the heel toward your buttocks (bum). Slowly lower your leg to the starting position.
What is the downside of knee replacement?
Greater risk of serious complications such as infections, blood clots, heart attacks, stroke and death. Worse functional outcomes reported by patients. Higher rate of early re-operations.
How many weeks should I ice after knee replacement surgery?
Ice the knee frequently for the first two to three weeks after surgery. It is particularly helpful to ice after you have done your exercises or been on your feet for a while. Icing is very important and very helpful. Swelling of the entire leg is also normal.
How long do I have to sleep with my leg straight after knee replacement?
You will heal between 3-6 weeks and after you have recovered, you can begin sleeping normally again. However, if the position you are used to sleeping in causes pain, avoid it for a few more days until you are completely healed.
What is the hardest orthopedic surgery to recover from?
- Spinal Fusion Surgery. Spinal fusion is a procedure where two vertebrae are fused to prevent the movement that is causing pain. ...
- Complex Spinal Reconstruction. ...
- Knee Replacement. ...
- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Surgery. ...
- Shoulder Replacement.
Should I keep my knee straight or bent after surgery?
Keep your knee straight
To support the healing process, keep your leg and foot pointing straight ahead whenever you lie down or sit.
What is the hardest part of knee replacement recovery?
What is the hardest part of knee replacement recovery? The most difficult time after a knee replacement is the first week. During this time, your knee will likely be swollen, inflamed, and painful.
Can I drive 2 weeks after knee surgery?
If surgery was on your RIGHT knee, you should not drive for 1 month (4 weeks) after surgery. However, some surgeons do not allow their patients to drive until after they have been seen in the office at 4-6 weeks after surgery. Check with your surgeon for more specific direction.
Does a knee replacement ever feel normal?
Six months after your knee replacement
Usually by the 6 month mark, you're about 90% recovered. 30 out of 100 patients at 6 months will say “My knee feels pretty normal like the other side,” while the other 70 will say, “It's still not quite a normal knee but it's substantially better than what I had before.”
What is the hardest day after knee replacement surgery?
When quantifying how much pain there is after surgery, it is relative to the patient. The pain after a knee replacement is typically no worse than one of your worst days before you had surgery. However, you can feel this way for the first two to three weeks after the day of surgery.
How long does it take a 70 year old to recover from knee surgery?
The first few weeks will take planning, and you'll probably feel fully recovered after 6 to 12 months.
What is the best age to have a knee replacement?
In the United States, currently, the average age to undergo knee arthroplasty is around 65 years old. Mostly knee replacement surgery is performed in elders with severe arthritis, while those under the age of 50 are considered young and are asked to wait until the age of 65.
How long does it take for a total knee replacement to stop hurting?
Your body just went through a major surgery and needs time to heal. Most people can resume daily activities with reduced pain approximately three to six weeks after surgery. Full recovery can take anywhere from four months to a year.