More than 1.3 million knee replacements were performed in the U.S. in 2023, and the number continues to rise. Knee replacements enable athletes and active people to return to doing what they love. A key to a successful replacement is the recovery period. Here is a simple list of measures you can take before your surgery and a list of what to do—and what not to do—after your knee replacement, all to help make your recovery smoother.
Pre-Knee Replacement Surgery Prep List
Be prepared for your surgery with these recommendations:
- Modify Your Home: Set up a first-floor bedroom, clear walkways, and keep essentials within easy reach.
- Use a Cane or Walker: A cane or walker helps prevent falls and supports safe walking early in recovery.
- Ask for Family Help: You may need help with daily tasks like meals, shopping, and bathing for a few weeks.
- Consult Your Doctor: Consult with your surgeon and physical therapist to stay on track with recovery and avoid setbacks.
After-Knee Replacement Surgery To-Do List
During your recovery period, there are several things you can do to limit any permanent movement restrictions after your knee replacement.
DO:
1. Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions
It is essential to follow your surgeon’s discharge instructions for your optimum recovery. Instructions may include wound care, exercise recommendations, and precautions to avoid infection or additional injury.
2. Elevate Your Knee
After knee replacement surgery, it is important to elevate your entire leg, down to the ankle, to avoid swelling. When elevating, your feet should be above the level of your heart and as straight as possible.
3. Ice Up
Swelling after total knee replacement can last several months. Use ice packs three to four times a day for about 10–20 minutes after surgery to reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain.
4. Care for Your Wound
You will have stitches or staples running along your knee wound. The wound must not stay wet until it has thoroughly sealed and dried. A bandage on the wound can help avoid dirt and irritation.
5. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Some people experience a loss of appetite after surgery. Maintaining a balanced diet and overall healthy lifestyle helps your wound heal and your knee restore muscle strength.
6. Follow Your Exercise Plan
The difference between a good knee replacement and a great one is following your physical therapy plan. It is important to continue to move and do the recommended exercises in the first few weeks after surgery to prevent a stiff knee or a permanent loss of motion.
After-Knee Replacement Surgery Not-to-Do List
Immediately after knee surgery, there are a few short-term limitations doctors recommend to optimize your recovery and surgery outcome. Most patients have no permanent restrictions after knee replacement.
DON’T:
1. Avoid Cutting, Jumping, and Contact Sports
Sports like football and basketball that involve cutting, jumping, or the risk of contact can add stress to the new knee immediately after the surgery. Also, high-impact activities are generally more likely to cause the mechanical knee to wear down over time compared to low-impact activities.
2. Don’t Sit for Long Periods
Sitting for extended periods increases the risk of blood clots and additional swelling following surgery. It is recommended that you do not sit for more than an hour at a time unless your leg is elevated.
3. Avoid Using Stairs Excessively
You will want to limit stairs to only those that are necessary around the home immediately after your knee is replaced. Your therapist will work with you and make sure you are safe on the stairs before discharge.
4. Don’t Walk Without a Cane or Walker
To maximize your recovery, you should minimize any risk of falling or additional injury. Walking without a cane or walker to support you increases your chances of falling.
5. Don’t Drive While on Medications
Though you will not resume driving immediately after your surgery, you may still be taking some meds when the time comes. Driving while taking pain medication is extremely dangerous.
6. Don’t Ignore Excessive Pain
You will experience some postsurgery pain your doctor will help you manage. If you experience excessive pain or swelling that cannot be managed at home, immediately call your doctor.
More About Limitations After Knee Replacement
Are there any activities I should avoid permanently?
Every individual is different, but most people experience no permanent restrictions after the surgery. High-impact activities/sports are generally more likely to accelerate the wearing down of the mechanical knee compared to low-impact ones. Ask your doctor about your specific activities and the impact they may have on your new knee.
Can I kneel after surgery?
Yes, but it may be uncomfortable. Most people can kneel after 8–12 weeks, though using a cushion helps. Ask your surgeon before trying.
How long before I can walk normally?
You will likely use a walker at first. Most patients walk more normally within 4–6 weeks, though full recovery may take up to 3 months.
When can I drive?
Usually 4–6 weeks after surgery, if you are off pain meds and have good strength—especially for right knee replacements.
When can I return to work?
Desk jobs: 4–6 weeks. Active jobs: 6–12 weeks. It depends on your job and recovery. Ask your surgeon for guidance.
How long is physical therapy?
Typically 6–12 weeks. Frequency may decrease over time as you improve.
Will I have to do exercises at home after a knee replacement?
Yes. Home exercises are essential for recovery and work alongside your therapy sessions.
Are there any permanent restrictions after a knee replacement?
No, there are generally no permanent restrictions after a knee replacement. Most patients return to their usual activities after a smooth, surgeon-guided recovery. You may, however, need to limit activities in the short term, like high-impact exercises, kneeling, deep bending, or heavy lifting, while the joint heals.
The knee surgeons at EmergeOrtho-Blue Ridge Region utilize the most advanced joint replacement diagnostic, surgical, and therapeutic methods to ensure that your procedure and recovery produce optimal results. Board-certified and fellowship-trained, our knee experts have helped many patients return to the activities they love, enjoying better mobility and less pain than before surgery. If you are considering knee replacement surgery and have questions about any post-surgery limitations, schedule a consultation with one of our joint replacement surgeons.
