If you are among the roughly 1 million Americans projected to undergo knee replacement surgery this year, you’re not alone in wondering what to expect from the recovery process. How long will it be before you regain your mobility, and what will it take to get back to a reality that isn’t constantly dictated by pain?
A successful knee replacement can last upwards of 10-15 years and has the potential to facilitate a return to a less painful and more active lifestyle, but individuals considering this life-changing procedure should be aware that effective rehabilitation post-knee replacement surgery does require a significant investment of time and energy. The exact length of time it takes to make a full recovery depends on a variety of factors, including the scope and complexity of the surgery, the age, overall health, and treatment goals of the patient, and their adherence to recommended rehabilitation practices. On average, a 6 to 12 month recovery timeline is to be expected.
Below, we’ve provided a general overview of what patients can expect in the hours, days, weeks, and months following knee replacement surgery. To learn more about treatment options for chronic knee pain and receive a more accurate estimate for your own recovery timeline, book a consultation with our world-class joint replacement specialists at Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey today!
Total Replacements Vs. Partial Replacements
If you are experiencing ongoing pain, stiffness, and/or inflammation in your knee joint that has not responded to conservative treatment options and is significantly impacting your mobility and quality of life, it may be time to consider knee replacement surgery. Commonly performed to alleviate symptoms associated with severe arthritis of the knee, this type of procedure replaces damaged bony surfaces—including the upper end of the tibia (shinbone), the lower end of the femur (thigh bone), and/or the patella (kneecap)—with metal and plastic parts that restore the smooth, painless function of the joint.
At Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey, our leading orthopedic surgeons use advanced robotic technology to preserve healthy bone and ensure the incredibly precise placement of prosthetic parts. Depending on the specifics of your case, a partial or total knee replacement procedure may be recommended:
Partial Knee Replacements
A partial knee replacement (PKR), also referred to as a unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA), is best suited to cases where bone damage is only affecting one side (compartment) of the knee joint. During this type of procedure, the medial (inner) or lateral (outer) side of the knee joint is replaced, but not both. Recovery times are typically somewhat shorter for a partial knee replacement than for a total knee replacement.
Total Knee Replacements
A total knee replacement (TKR), also referred to as a total knee arthroplasty (TKA), is best suited to cases where bone damage is extensive throughout the entire knee joint (both compartments). During this type of procedure, the medial (inner) and lateral (outer) sides of the knee joint are replaced. Recovery times are typically somewhat longer for a total knee replacement than for a partial knee replacement.
Knee Replacement Surgery Recovery Timeline
The timeline for recovery post-knee replacement surgery depends on a variety of factors, including:
- The complexity/extent of the patient’s knee problems
- The type of surgical procedure performed (partial vs. total knee replacement)
- The skill of the surgeon
- The age of the patient
- The overall health and physical activity level of the patient prior to surgery
- The patient’s health goals (the level of physical activity they hope to return to)
- The patient’s level of commitment to recommended rehabilitation practices
On average, the timeline for a full recovery after knee replacement surgery ranges from 6-12 months, but this estimate can vary substantially. The first 12 weeks after surgery are particularly critical in determining the long-term success of the healing process, and consistent adherence to recommended rehabilitation practices during this period is essential.
The timeline below represents a general overview of what patients can expect as they recover after knee replacement surgery. For a more personalized projection tailored to the specifics of your case, speak directly with one of our knee replacement specialists at Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey.
Day 1
It may surprise you to learn that active rehabilitation usually begins immediately following knee replacement. A rehabilitation specialist will begin working with you as soon as you wake up, sometimes even in the recovery room (this is one of the reasons knee replacement surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia and sedation rather than general anesthesia). Within hours after surgery, you’ll be encouraged to stand and even take a few steps with the aid of an assistive device, such as a cane, walker, or crutches. This will allow you to immediately begin performing essential tasks independently, such as getting into and out of bed, dressing, bathing, and going to the toilet.
Day 2
Most patients are able to return home the day following knee replacement surgery (and sometimes even the same day), but in some cases, a second day in hospital is deemed necessary. If this is the case, you’ll continue to be monitored and receive physical therapy until your medical team feels confident that you are ready to safely navigate life at home on your own.
Discharge Day
Before discharging you from the hospital, your medical team will ensure that:
- Your surgical incision appears to be healing well.
- Your pain level is manageable with medication.
- Your blood pressure is within a normal range.
- You are able to walk a short distance with an assistive device and perform essential tasks such as bathing, using the bathroom, and dressing.
- You have a safe home environment and caregiver support as needed.
- You have been provided with and are able to perform targeted at-home exercises to improve your rehabilitation outcomes.
Weeks 1-3
Weeks 1-3 after knee replacement surgery are largely focused on gait, strength, and range of motion training and are vital in determining the long-term success of the procedure. At this point in your recovery process, working toward full extension of the knee is a priority, as are other range of motion exercises, such as gentle stationary biking. Continuing to elevate and ice the knee joint as directed by your doctor is essential to successful recovery, and closely following the advice of your physical therapist will be key in finding the right balance between rest and exercise during this critical recovery period.
By the end of the third week of recovery, most patients can stand for 10 minutes or more and are less reliant on assistive devices (some may not need them at all). Stitches/staples have been removed, prescription pain medications are usually no longer necessary, and daily routines are getting easier to perform.
Weeks 4-6
If you’ve stayed consistent with your rehabilitation exercises and are following the recommendations of your doctor and physical therapist, weeks 4 to 6 of recovery post-knee replacement surgery should represent a period of rapid improvement. During this time period you’ll continue to focus on building your strength and increasing your range of motion. You can also expect to be regaining your independence with milestones that may include:
- Taking longer walks
- Performing more daily tasks and routines independently
- Returning to driving (depending on your progress)
- Returning to work (if your job is not physically demanding)
- Being cleared to travel (depending on your progress)
Weeks 7-12
By 7-12 weeks post-knee replacement surgery, most patients are gradually returning to low-impact physical activities. Physical therapy routines have intensified and may now include exercises such as biking, balancing, mini squats, and step-ups to increase mobility, strength, and range of motion. By week 12 of recovery, you should be experiencing less stiffness and pain in your knee joint and be able to return to a more active lifestyle, though high-impact activities should still be avoided.
Weeks 13+
Beyond 13 weeks, knee replacement rehabilitation continues to emphasize increasing strength, stability, and range of motion in the knee joint. A full return to an active lifestyle and high-impact activities can be expected somewhere between 6-12 months post-surgery, depending on the circumstances.
Tips To Aid Recovery After Knee Replacement Surgery
Walk As Soon As Possible
Early ambulation within the first 24 hours after surgery is associated with numerous benefits, including a shorter length of stay in the hospital, a lower incidence of blood clots and infection, and improved knee function overall.
Exercise Often
Staying active within the rehabilitation framework recommended by your doctor and physical therapist is essential to rapid and successful recovery after knee replacement surgery.
Commit To Physical Therapy
Ongoing physical therapy sessions are crucial to successful rehabilitation post-knee replacement. You should begin working with a physical therapist immediately following surgery and continue throughout the duration of your recovery process.
Get Plenty Of Rest
Hard work is essential after knee replacement surgery, but getting enough rest is also vital to a successful recovery. Follow the advice of your doctor and physical therapist closely in this regard.
Conclusion
At Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey, our concierge joint replacement program has been meticulously designed to ensure the best possible experience and outcome for each individual patient. Learn more about our cutting-edge approach to knee replacement surgery when you book an initial consultation at our state-of-the-art clinic today. We look forward to working with you!
