Everything to Know About Recovery from Knee Surgery: Rehab, Therapy, and Timeline

Here’s a closer look at what to expect during recovery—and how rehabilitation plays a key role in getting back on your feet.

The First Few Days: Rest and Gentle Movement

Right after surgery, the body needs time to recover from the procedure itself. Expect some swelling, bruising, and stiffness in the early days. Pain is usually managed with medications, ice, and elevation.

Key steps during this phase:

• Using assistive devices like crutches or a walker
• Wearing a knee brace, if prescribed
• Beginning light movement (such as ankle pumps) to improve circulation
• Managing pain and swelling with rest, ice, and compression

Most people stay in the hospital for 1–3 days after major knee surgery, or go home the same day for smaller procedures like arthroscopy.

Weeks 1–6: Starting Physical Therapy

This is when the real work begins. A physical therapist helps guide exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve flexibility. Consistency during this stage can make a big difference in long-term results.

Therapy goals during this stage:

1. Regain range of motion (especially bending and straightening the knee)
2. Improve walking ability and balance
3. Begin strength training for the thigh and calf muscles
4. Learn proper techniques for stairs, sitting, and standing

Most people attend physical therapy 2–3 times per week, with additional exercises done at home daily.

Months 2–3: Building Strength and Endurance

By this time, mobility usually improves, and walking becomes easier—often without assistance. Swelling may still come and go, especially after activity.

Common milestones during this period:

• Walking without a cane or walker
• Climbing stairs with less effort
• Returning to low-impact activities like swimming or stationary biking
• Gradually increasing knee strength and stamina

Consistency in rehab continues to be important. Skipping exercises can slow down recovery or cause long-term stiffness.

3–6 Months and Beyond: Getting Back to Normal

Most people feel significantly better by the 3-month mark, though full recovery may take 6–12 months depending on the type of surgery. High-impact sports or physically demanding jobs may require more time.

What to expect long term:

• Ongoing improvement in strength and flexibility
• Occasional soreness with overuse or weather changes
• Return to hobbies like golfing, walking, or gardening
• Better joint function and reduced pain compared to pre-surgery

Recovery looks different for everyone, but staying active, following medical advice, and not rushing the process can help ensure the best results.

Final Thoughts

Knee surgery recovery isn’t just about healing the joint—it’s about rebuilding confidence and movement in everyday life. With the right rehab plan and support, the journey becomes more manageable day by day.

Sources

• Mayo Clinic – “Knee Replacement Surgery”
• Cleveland Clinic – “Knee Surgery Recovery Timeline”
• Johns Hopkins Medicine – “Physical Therapy After Knee Surgery”