Last Updated on November 29, 2022 by Shabnam Sengupta
Most likely. Even though the replaced knee will not feel like an actual knee after the knee replacement surgery, there can be a full recovery in most cases, and the patient can significantly regain the range of motion post-rehabilitation.
What is the recovery time after the knee replacement surgery?
Generally, patients who undergo knee replacement surgery will be in the hospital for about a few days depending on the condition. The recovery timeline for a total knee replacement typically lasts 12 weeks. As suggested by the doctor, one must perform rehabilitation exercises to help improve recovery time. The surgery improves function and reduces pain, significantly improving the quality of life. Still, most patients will not be able to do more than they did before the onset of arthritis. A replacement knee may feel different than a natural knee.
According to an article published in the Lancet in the year 2018, there will be a very good clinical outcome in most patients after undergoing a knee replacement. However, certain studies have shown that around 20% or more of patients do not have a good clinical outcome. Therefore, despite long-term survivorship, further research and work are needed to enhance knee replacement surgery. The development in this field should focus on increasing the proportion of successful pain relief patients after surgery.
How long does it take to bend the knee after surgery?
Post-surgery it can take around 3-4 months for a patient to recover completely. The rehabilitation will start after the surgery. Initially, the physiotherapist or the physical therapist would help you to increase the range of motion with the help of assisted devices such as walkers, crutches and canes. As stated by the UConn Musculoskeletal Institute, after the knee replacement surgery, the patient will take around 7 to 10 days to get their knee entirely straight/full extension. Most of the patients must be able to bend/flex their knee to at least 70- 90 degrees in the initial days post-surgery. If the patient exercises and follows the post-operative instructions of the doctor and achieves 90 degrees in one week, then they will end up with an excellent range of motion after the surgery.
Eventually, with exercise and rehab, bending and strength of the knee would improve, and you may go off the assisted device at around 4-6 weeks post-surgery. Your mobility and range of motion, possibly to 120 degrees and increased strength in the knee and the surrounding muscles would happen in weeks 7-11.
Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.
