Life After Knee Replacement: What to Expect During Recovery

“I think what most patients hate is surprises,” Dr Goudar said.

If you are preparing for knee replacement, you may hear stories from friends or family about how their recovery went. Those experiences can be useful, but they cannot tell you exactly how your own knee will feel.

Joint Vision orthopaedic surgeon Dr Anil Goudar wants patients to discuss recovery before the operation, including discomfort, rehabilitation and the activities they hope to return to.

Understanding the plan gives patients a chance to ask questions and organise support before they go home.

Watch: Dr Anil Goudar on hip and knee care

Early movement is part of the plan

Dr Goudar describes helping patients begin moving soon after surgery, once the clinical team considers it safe. They may initially use a walking aid and need assistance.

The timing of discharge depends on the person, their medical condition, mobility and the support available at home. Leaving hospital is an early step in recovery, rather than evidence that the knee has fully recovered.

Pain relief and rehabilitation work together

Dr Goudar discusses pain management as part of helping patients participate in rehabilitation. His team may use several methods, with the plan adjusted to the patient and procedure.

The rehabilitation program needs to be manageable and appropriate for the stage of recovery. It can involve walking, knee movement and exercises to rebuild strength.

Patients should ask how to use prescribed medicines, what side effects to report and whom to contact if pain is making the program difficult. Trying to force progress through severe pain is not a substitute for advice from the treating team.

Recovery takes time

Dr Goudar explains that a knee replacement can take time to settle and may need more rehabilitation than patients expect from hearing about someone's hip replacement.

Progress is individual. General health, function before surgery and any complications can affect recovery. A single promised date for being “back to normal” is unlikely to capture every patient's experience.

Useful discussions include when you might manage daily tasks, how to plan time away from work and how your exercise program will progress. Driving and return to work should be discussed with your treating team in the context of your recovery and usual duties.

Will the knee feel like a natural knee?

Dr Goudar cautions against assuming that replacement will remove every limitation. An artificial joint can feel different, and some patients continue to notice stiffness, altered sensation or discomfort.

He encourages patients to discuss the activities that matter to them before surgery. High-impact or contact activities may need particular consideration, and a good result does not mean every activity is suitable.

Setting realistic goals helps the team plan rehabilitation around the person's life.

Knowing when to ask for help

Follow-up appointments allow the team to review the wound, movement and progress. Patients should also know how to seek advice between appointments.

Increasing wound redness or drainage, fever, or new calf pain or swelling needs prompt assessment. Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain requires emergency care; call 000. These symptoms should not be assumed to be a normal part of recovery.

Preparing your home and support

Before surgery, think about transport, meals, household tasks and getting to follow-up appointments. Let the team know if you live alone or anticipate difficulty managing at home.

At Joint Vision, your care team can explain the proposed recovery pathway and who to contact if concerns arise. Bring your questions to your appointment so your preparation includes the operation and the weeks that follow.

Plan your next step

Still considering whether surgery is right for you? Read Do I Need a Knee Replacement Yet? or explore hip and knee care at Joint Vision in Wollongong.

For rehabilitation support, learn about physiotherapy and exercise physiology.

To discuss knee replacement and recovery with Dr Goudar, speak with your GP about a referral, then request a specialist appointment. For help finding the right service, view your appointment options.

This information is general. Follow the advice and recovery plan provided by your treating team.