What to Do Before Your Knee or Hip Replacement: Preparing for Surgery

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

Deciding to proceed with a knee or hip replacement is a significant step. While the operation itself is important, how well you prepare beforehand can have a real impact on your recovery and early function.

This guide outlines the key areas patients should focus on in the weeks leading up to surgery.

1. Improve Strength and Mobility Where Possible

Pain and stiffness often lead to reduced activity before surgery, which can weaken the muscles around the joint. Targeted exercise before your operation (“prehabilitation”) can:

• Improve muscle control and balance
• Help you mobilise more easily after surgery
• Reduce early stiffness and loss of confidence

Low-impact activities such as walking, cycling on an exercise bike, or swimming are often suitable. A physiotherapist can advise on exercises appropriate to your symptoms and limitations.

2. Optimise Your General Health

Good healing depends on overall health:

• Smoking increases the risk of wound problems and infection. Stopping before surgery significantly reduces these risks.
• Nutrition and hydration matter. Adequate protein intake supports tissue healing and recovery.

If you have medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, ensuring these are well controlled before surgery is important.

3. Understand the Procedure and Recovery

Uncertainty can increase anxiety. Before surgery, make sure you understand:

• What the operation involves
• Expected length of hospital stay
• When you are likely to start walking and exercising
• Typical recovery timelines

Clear expectations help patients engage more confidently with rehabilitation.

4. Prepare Your Home and Support

Simple practical steps can make early recovery easier:

• Reduce trip hazards such as loose rugs or clutter
• Arrange frequently used items within easy reach
• Organise help with transport, meals, and household tasks for the first few weeks

Planning ahead reduces stress and allows you to focus on rehabilitation.

5. Prepare Questions for Your Pre-Operative Appointment

Your pre-operative assessment is an opportunity to clarify any remaining concerns. Common topics include:

• Anaesthetic options
• Pain management after surgery
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation plans
• When you can return to work, driving, or sport

No question is trivial — informed patients generally recover more confidently.