Stick to the plan

Your doctor made that plan for a reason—and no, googling doesn’t count as a second opinion. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice excessive swelling, fever, chills, wound drainage, or increasing leg or calf pain—these could be signs of an infection or blood clot.

Stay on schedule

Set reminders to take pain medication as directed.

Keep it cool

Use ice packs to reduce swelling and keep things comfortable.

Keep it circulating

While resting, try ankle pumps to improve blood flow.

Maintain clean incision sites

Keep it clean and dry. Your care team will provide dressing instructions before you leave. Choose loose, comfortable clothing to avoid irritation. Home health aides or in-home physical therapists can make a big difference for caring for your incision.

Follow bathing instructions 

Waterproof dressings are often shower-friendly, but staples or bandages may require waiting. When you need to wash, showers are recommended to help keep your incision dry. Talk to your doctor about when it’s safe to shower.

Sleep isn’t just for beauty—it’s for healing, too

It’s important to get at least 8 hours of sleep per night during the recovery period (a well-rested body is a healing machine!), so make sure your bed is properly set up.

Check first

Ask your doctor what sleeping position is best for your individual condition.

For extra support

For extra support, use a foam wedge to elevate your leg and support your knee, or a firm pillow from your knee to your calf. 

No pillow? No problem

If elevating your leg and supporting your knee feels good, ask your doctor whether it’s okay to place a rolled-up towel under your ankle. They may recommend avoiding anything under your knee to help keep your leg straight while you sleep.

Pain and swelling after surgery

Pain is a normal part of recovery. It can be managed with medication, icing, and elevation. Think of it as your joint’s dramatic phase—it gets better.

Narcotic medications

If you’re prescribed opioids, they can help with pain after surgery—but they’re not a long-term plan. Use them exactly as your doctor tells you, and start dialing back as soon as you feel better. Still hurting after a few days? That’s your cue to check in with your doctor, not tough it out.

Different types of swelling may occur after knee replacement surgery

Moderate to severe swelling may appear during the first few days or weeks after surgery, while mild to moderate swelling can continue for up to six months as part of the normal healing process.

How to reduce swelling

To help reduce swelling, your doctor may recommend slightly elevating your leg, applying ice to the affected area, and wearing compression stockings. These simple steps can support healing and improve comfort during recovery.

Tell your doctor if you experience new or severe swelling. This may be a warning sign of a blood clot.

This is a comeback, not a fast-forward, but you'll get there

There’s no set timeline for recovery—it’s different for everyone. Some people find their rhythm in 3 to 6 weeks, while others take longer to fully get back to what they love.

Your doctor and physical therapist will craft a plan that’s built around your goals and progress, helping you move forward one step at a time.

First steps: Returning to activity

Recovery starts with one step—literally. With support, many patients are up and walking shortly after surgery. These first small steps pave the way for recovery.

Take it 1 day at a time

Recovery isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon. Some days might feel tougher than others, and that’s okay. Celebrate the small wins, like getting out of bed or taking a few steps.

Back to work

Whether you’re at a desk or on your feet all day, your timeline to return will depend on your recovery, progress, and your job. Your doctor will help you figure out when it’s safe to dive back in.

Hitting the road

Most patients feel ready between 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery to get behind the wheel, but your doctor will help decide the right time for you.

Active, not impactful

There are joint-friendly activities like swimming, walking, or cycling to keep things strong and smooth.*

*Ask your doctor what activities are right for you.

Recovery isn’t just physical. It’s mental, emotional, and maybe even a little funny

Hey, that new knee is looking good. This is the time to keep a positive mindset. Watch comedies, talk to a friend who makes you laugh—whatever keeps the vibes good while your knee does its thing

Here are some other tips to help you get the most out of your recovery period.

Find your people and swap helpful tips

Join local or online support groups to connect with others on their knee replacement journey. Sharing stories of recovery can make challenges feel more manageable.

Bookmark trusted healthcare websites for tips on pain management, wound care, and feel-good exercises.

Ask for help

Lean on family and friends for errands like grocery runs or prescription pick-ups. Most people are ready to help—you just need to ask!

Take some you time

Self-care matters! Take breaks when therapy feels hard or practice mindfulness exercises to help recharge and stay steady throughout your recovery.

Celebrate the little victories

Did you take a few steps today? High five! Did you manage to get a good night’s sleep? Heck yeah! Every little step forward is worth celebrating.

Keep your eyes on the prize

A positive mindset is like a secret weapon for healing. Picture yourself a few months from now, walking without pain.