Of all joint replacements, the knee demands the most consistent rehabilitation effort — the surrounding muscles and scar tissue genuinely need daily work to regain a good range of motion. The exercises below are a general guide; always follow your own physiotherapist's specific programme and timeline.
Day 1–3: In hospital
- Ankle pumps to support circulation
- Quadriceps sets — tightening the thigh muscle without bending the knee
- Heel slides to begin regaining bend, within a comfortable range
- Standing and walking short distances with support, typically within 24 hours
Week 1–2: Chasing your bend
Regaining knee bend (flexion) early matters more than almost anything else in knee rehabilitation. Scar tissue forms quickly, and a knee that isn't consistently moved in the first few weeks can become stiff in a way that's much harder to correct later.
- Seated and lying heel slides, several times daily
- Straight leg raises to maintain quadriceps strength
- Gentle stationary cycling with the seat raised high initially, if available and approved
- Icing after each exercise session to control swelling
Week 3–6: Building strength and endurance
- Progression to mini-squats and step-ups as strength allows
- Walking distance increased gradually, moving off aids as balance and strength permit
- Stationary cycling with increasing resistance
- Balance and proprioception exercises
Week 6–12: Returning to normal activity
- Most patients achieve 110–120 degrees of bend by this point, sufficient for normal daily activities including most stairs and getting in and out of a car comfortably
- Return to swimming, cycling, and low-impact gym work once cleared
- Gradual return to driving, once reaction time and comfort allow
- Higher-impact or pivoting sports are introduced later, and only with specific clearance
A realistic expectation about bend and swelling
Mild swelling and some warmth around a replaced knee can persist for several months — this is a normal part of the tissue healing process, not a sign that something is wrong, provided it's gradually trending downward rather than worsening.
Signs to stop and call your surgical team
- Sudden increase in swelling, redness or warmth
- Wound discharge or fever
- Calf pain, swelling, or shortness of breath
- A sudden loss of previously-gained bend or a locking sensation
This guide is for general education and does not replace individual medical advice. Every patient's condition is different — book a consultation with Dr. Abhimanyu Singh to discuss what applies to you.