Knee Replacement – What to Expect After Surgery 

By Mr Philip Dobson, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in knee and hip conditions in Newcastle (Newcastle Hospitals NHS and Nuffield Health).

Knee replacement surgery is one of the most successful operations for relieving pain and improving mobility when arthritis or injury has worn away the joint. Knowing what to expect after your operation can help you feel more confident and recover more smoothly. 

The First Few Days in Hospital

After surgery, you’ll wake up with a bandage around your knee. Most patients are up and moving within a few hours of surgery with help from the physiotherapy team.

You can go home the same day but some people stay in hospital for 1 night depending on your progress. During this time:

• The team will monitor your wound and pain levels.
• You’ll begin walking with crutches.
• You’ll learn basic exercises to get your knee moving safely.

Pain and swelling are normal, but we aim to keep both well controlled with a combination of medication and ice therapy.

Going Home

You’ll be discharged once you’re walking safely with crutches and can manage stairs.

Before you go home, the physiotherapist will give you a tailored exercise plan — this is key to regaining strength and flexibility.

At home:

• Keep your wound clean and dry until the dressing is removed (usually around 10–14 days).
• Use your walking aids as advised, gradually reducing them as your confidence grows.
• Elevate your leg when resting to help with swelling.

It’s normal to feel tired for the first couple of weeks. Give yourself time to rest and recover.

The First Six Weeks

Most patients make steady progress during this time. You’ll notice:

• Less stiffness and swelling week by week
• Gradual return of strength and balance
• Improved ability to bend and straighten the knee

Driving can usually resume around six weeks once you’re confident, off strong pain medication, and can perform an emergency stop comfortably.

Returning to Everyday Activities

By three months, most people walk independently and enjoy much less pain.

Light activities such as swimming, cycling, or golf can usually resume — your surgeon or physiotherapist will guide you.

High-impact sports and running aren’t advised, but most daily and recreational activities are fine.

Long-Term Outlook

A well-performed knee replacement should last 15–20 years or more. Keeping your weight healthy, staying active, and following your exercise plan all help preserve the joint.

When to Seek Advice

Contact your healthcare team if you notice:

• Increasing pain, redness, or swelling
• Any fluid or discharge from the wound
• Fever or feeling generally unwell

Early review helps prevent small problems from becoming bigger ones.

Final Thoughts

Knee replacement surgery can be life-changing — relieving pain, restoring movement, and letting you return to the activities you enjoy.

Preparation, good pain control, and commitment to your physiotherapy make all the difference in achieving the best outcome.