Most patients walk within 24 hours, climb stairs in 2 weeks, drive in 4 weeks and return to active life in 6–8 weeks. Full strength returns by month 3–6 with structured physiotherapy.
Days 1 to 3: Hospital recovery
You'll be encouraged to stand and take a few assisted steps within 24 hours of surgery. Pain is well-controlled with modern multimodal pain management.
By day 2 or 3, most patients walk independently with a walker and are discharged home.
Week 1 to 2: Early home recovery
Focus on gentle range-of-motion exercises, swelling control with ice and elevation, and short walks at home.
By the end of week 2, most patients can climb stairs and reduce reliance on the walker.
Week 4 to 6: Returning to normal life
You can drive (if it's not the right knee), return to office work, and walk longer distances comfortably.
Continue physiotherapy 3–4 times a week to build strength.
Month 3 to 6: Full recovery
By month 3, most patients are walking 5+ km a day and can resume light sports like swimming and cycling.
By month 6, the new joint feels natural and you can return to almost all activities, including travel and hobbies.