Dr Ritesh Kumar

Knee Replacement Recovery Knee replacement surgery (knee arthroplasty) is surgery to replace all or some of your knee joint. Your surgeon will replace damaged cartilage and bone with prosthetic implants. It can take up to a year to recover fully after a knee replacement, but you’ll be able to resume some of your usual activities gradually as you heal. What is the recovery time after a knee replacement? It usually takes around a year to recover fully after a knee replacement. But you should be able to resume most of your usual activities in six weeks. Do home exercises: Your surgeon will give you exercises to start as soon as possible after your surgery. They’ll show you how to perform these movements safely. Elevate your knee: Keep your knee above the level of your heart as often as possible. You can prop it up on cushions, pillows or a footstool. Ice your knee: Icing your knee a few times a day for 20 minutes at a time will help relieve pain and swelling. Keep your incision clean and covered: Follow your surgeon’s incision care instructions carefully. Ask your surgeon when you should change the dressing on your incision site and when it’s safe to take a shower or bathe. Start physical therapy: You’ll work with a physical therapist for up to a few months after surgery. They’ll help you start moving safely, including bending your knee and walking. Aug 17, 2026 Call now