How to Recover Faster from Knee Surgery

One of the most asked questions by patients, especially our athletes, is how can I recover quickly from knee surgery? The answer to that question depends on a host of variables like age, health, and dedication to recovery. However, there are things you can do to speed your recovery.

Post Operative Tip for Knee Surgery

1. Keep Your Knee Straight

After surgery, it is important to focus on resting the knee.  For the first few days, you will want to keep your knee as straight as possible. Avoid getting up too much by making sure everything you need is in your reach before surgery. We also highly encourage patients to use their crutches until their physical therapist approves them to start walking independently. 

2. If You Are Given a Knee Brace, Wear It

Your knee brace helps make sure your knee stays where it’s supposed to. This device is important to use if you plan on walking around or doing any kind of physical activity after surgery. If you were to fall or become unstable, your knee brace will help protect you from further damage to the knee. It may be a pain to put on, but you will be thankful when your recovery time 

3. Do Your Physical Therapy

As much as getting rest is important, going to physical therapy and doing your at-home exercises is the single most important part of your recovery journey! Our orthopedic surgeons work closely with MPOWER Physical Therapy to ensure our patients receive the highest quality care even after surgery. 

After surgery, your muscles will “shut down” as a response to the trauma it goes through during the surgery. Because of this, it will take time and effort to get your muscles back to where they were before surgery. Your physical therapist will give you exercises and stretches to do at home to both increases your strength and mobility. Most patients come out of physical therapy amazed at the progress they make after each session.

4. Accept Where You Are and Stay Positive

Recovery is not a straight shot to the finish line. It is perfectly normal to go through periods of feeling like you have not made progress. It takes time for your body to recover, and that is why it is so important to work closely with your physical therapist during the process. If they feel you are not quite where you are supposed to be, they will know the best way to make changes for the best outcome.

Author

Cassie Whittaker
Cassie is the Communications Coordinator for Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics. She has been writing and reviewing medical content since 2020. https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassie-whittaker-802a3b173