Preparing for and Recovering From Knee Replacement

A total knee replacement can relieve severe arthritis pain and give years of better mobility. But the operation is only part of the result. The work you put in before and after surgery shapes how well the new knee moves.

Before surgery: prehab

Getting stronger before surgery ("prehabilitation") can make the early recovery easier.

• Strengthen the thigh and hip: straight leg raises, sit-to-stands, bridges and side-lying leg lifts.
• Keep the knee moving: gentle bending and straightening within comfort.
• Practise with a walker or crutches so you're confident using them afterwards.
• Prepare your home: clear trip hazards, set up a firm chair with armrests, and think about bathroom safety such as grab rails or a raised toilet seat.
• Stay active as much as your knee allows, and if you're overweight, gradual weight loss helps.

Days 1 to 3 (in hospital)

Most people are helped out of bed within a day of surgery. A physiotherapist will teach you to:

• Walk with a frame or crutches
• Do simple exercises: ankle pumps, thigh tightening, heel slides
• Get in and out of bed and up from a chair safely
• Manage a few stairs before going home

Weeks 1 to 6

This phase is about bend, straighten, walk.

• Straightening: getting the knee fully straight is a priority. Don't rest with a pillow under the knee.
• Bending: aim to steadily increase bending. Many surgeons hope for around 90 degrees within the first few weeks, enough to sit comfortably and climb stairs.
• Swelling: ice packs (wrapped in a cloth), elevation and regular short walks.
• Walking: progress from frame to crutches to stick as your strength and balance allow.

Pain and swelling are normal in this phase. Take painkillers as prescribed so you can do your exercises.

Weeks 6 to 12

• Wean off the walking aid when your surgeon and physiotherapist agree.
• Build strength with step-ups, mini squats and balance work.
• Exercise bikes are excellent once bending is enough to pedal.
• Many people return to driving and desk work in this phase, after clearance from their surgeon.

3 months and beyond

Strength, stamina and confidence keep improving for many months. Swelling and warmth can last up to a year. Walking, swimming, cycling and golf are generally encouraged; ask your surgeon about high-impact activities.

Call your surgeon urgently if you notice:

• Increasing redness, heat or discharge from the wound, or fever
• Calf pain, swelling or tenderness, or sudden breathlessness (these can be signs of a blood clot)
• A sudden increase in pain or loss of movement