Week‑by‑Week Knee Replacement Recovery Timeline (What to Expect)
This guide is general information—always follow your surgeon’s specific advice.
On this page
Milestones at a glance
| Time | Typical goals |
|---|---|
| Day 0–1 | Stand & walk with assistance; begin ankle pumps, quad sets; ice & elevate |
| Week 1 | Short walks every 1–2 hrs; ROM ~0–70°–80°; focus on full extension (straight knee) |
| Week 2 | ROM ~0–90°; improve swelling control; progress from walker → cane as safe |
| Weeks 3–4 | ROM ~0–100°–110°; 10–20 min walks 2–3×/day; practice stairs with rail |
| Weeks 5–6 | ROM ~0–110°–115°; 20–30 min walks; light stationary bike; consider driving (see note) |
| Weeks 7–12 | ROM up to ~120° (varies); 30–45 min walks; endurance & strength build; low‑impact activities |
ROM = range of motion. Targets vary by individual; your surgeon/physio will personalize goals.
Hospital Day 0–1
- Mobility: Stand and walk with a walker; begin physio the same day as advised.
- Pain & swelling: Ice 15–20 min several times/day; elevate ankle above heart; scheduled pain meds as prescribed.
- Circulation: Ankle pumps, foot circles; wear stockings; take blood thinners if prescribed.
- Wound care: Keep dressing clean/dry; follow instructions for showering (often 24–48 hrs with waterproof dressing).
Week 1
- Walking: Short walks every 1–2 hours while awake.
- Exercises: Quad/hamstring sets, heel slides, straight‑leg raises (if safe), knee extension hangs, gentle knee bends.
- ROM target: ~0–70°–80°; prioritize full extension (straight knee).
- Pain plan: Take meds on schedule; ice/elevate after exercises.
Week 2
- Walking: Increase distance; progress to cane as balance improves.
- Exercises: Continue week‑1 routine; add mini squats/chair sits as guided.
- ROM target: ~0–90°; swelling should trend down.
- Driving: Typically okay for left knee with automatic transmission once off strong pain meds and safe to brake/steer. Right knee usually needs longer—get surgeon clearance.
Weeks 3–4
- Walking: 10–20 min walks, 2–3×/day; aim for smooth gait.
- Stairs: Practice with rail: “up with the good, down with the operated” until strength improves.
- ROM target: ~0–100° to 110° (varies).
- Activities: Stationary bike (low resistance) if flexion allows; gentle household tasks.
Weeks 5–6
- Strength: Add resistance bands/leg presses per physio; balance drills.
- Endurance: 20–30 min continuous walking; light cycling.
- ROM target: ~0–110°–115°; extension at 0°.
- Driving/work: Consider returning to desk work; right‑knee drivers often cleared around 4–6+ weeks—confirm with surgeon.
Weeks 7–12
- Function: 30–45 min walks; increase bike resistance gradually; pool walking when wound healed.
- ROM target: Up to ~120° (some achieve more/less and still function excellently).
- Sports: Low‑impact (walking, cycling, swimming); avoid running/jumping/contact sports unless advised otherwise.
3–6 Months
- Most daily activities feel natural; continue strengthening for best long‑term results.
- Heavier/standing jobs may need 8–12+ weeks before full duty—individualize with your surgeon.
Red‑Flag Symptoms — Seek Care Urgently
- Fever >38.5°C, chills, wound redness/spread, discharge, or foul odor
- Severe calf pain/swelling, sudden shortness of breath, chest pain
- New or rapidly worsening numbness/weakness
- Pain that remains uncontrolled despite medication and rest
Home Setup & Practical Checklist
- Clear pathways; remove loose rugs/cables
- Firm chair with arms; raised toilet seat/shower chair if needed
- Cold packs, extra pillows for elevation, compression stockings
- Medication planner, stool softener (if on opioids), water bottle
- Emergency contacts and follow‑up schedule handy
Need a recovery plan tailored to you?
Book a consultation to review your goals and timelines and learn how enhanced‑recovery protocols can help.
Disclaimer: This is general guidance. Your timeline and activity progression will be personalized by your surgical team.