Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Center
How long before I will be able to resume my regular lifestyle after a knee replacement?
After total knee replacement surgery, I like for my patients to undergo an accelerated rehabilitation. This involves a close interaction of the patient with a physical therapist and the surgeon. Because there are no weight bearing or motion restrictions, the rate of progression of activities varies from patient to patient depending on several factors such as activity level, pain tolerance and motivation. I like to see my patients involved in light exercise as early as three weeks after surgery, including walking on the treadmill, stationary bicycle, and elliptical trainer.
Formal physical therapy lasts for 8-12 weeks and heavier activities such as golf and doubles tennis, could start by 12 weeks. Snow skiing would be possible by 4-6 months.
