Recovery from Knee Replacement: What to Expect and How to Heal
If you or a loved one are preparing for a knee replacement surgery, you are probably wondering how long the recovery lasts - and more importantly, what the recovery is like. The good news is that while it does take time and work, recovery does have amazing benefits in pain relief, mobility and quality of life. Let's discuss what you can expect throughout the recovery process, and how you can make it as easy and successful as possible. The First Couple Days: Rest, Mobility, Support Immediately after surgery, you will need time for tissue healing and you will most likely spend a day or two in hospital (although some people feel well enough to go home the same day, dependant on their health and doctors guidance). Depending on how you feel and your condition, you will then be starting to perform some gentle movements of the knee with assistance from a physical therapist. You may be surprised to learn that surgery recipients are encouraged to stand and walk within 24 hours! A walker or crutches will be utilized to enable you to safely move around. Pain and swelling are expected post-surgically, but medications and ice will be available to help with management. Weeks 1-6: Building Strength and Motion This is when things start to get hard. You will be going to regular physical therapy either at home or in a clinic.