Revised joint replacement packages and pricing as per Govt NPPA implant pricing, effective 16th Aug 2017.

Life After Knee Replacement

Knee Condition and Mobility

Once you’ve had knee replacement surgery and completed rehab, your knee should have a range of motion of 100-120 degrees, sufficient for all your daily tasks such as walking and climbing stairs.

Thanks to your new knee, you will be able to do many of the activities you did before your knee surgery, but with little or no pain. Most people with total knees can do recreational walking, swimming, golf, driving, light hiking, recreational biking, ballroom dancing and stair climbing without difficulty.

Activities to Avoid

Even though your activity level is likely to increase, a Knee Replacement Surgery means that high-demand or high-impact activities must be avoided. You should definitely avoid running or jogging, contact sports, jumping sports, and high impact aerobics. You should also try to avoid vigorous walking or hiking, skiing, tennis, repetitive lifting exceeding 50 pounds, and repetitive aerobic stair climbing. The safest aerobic exercise is biking (stationary or traditional) because it places very little stress on the knee joint

How Long Your Implant Should Last

The average total knee currently lasts 20-30 years, depending on the material chosen. In some cases, worn components can be easily switched out for new ones, but revision surgery is always an experience doctors and patients want to avoid if at all possible. Knee surgery has great potential to improve your quality of life and ensure that you can remain active and vital.

FAQ's - Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to fully recover from knee replacement surgery?

Every patient's recovery timeline is unique and depends on their medical history and knee health. On average, it can take around one year to fully recover and perform routine activities as actively as before. Here's how the recovery timeline may look:

  • First 1-2 months: Focus on pain management, swelling reduction, and regaining mobility and function. The patient might need walking aids to gradually strengthen their muscles and regain mobility.
  • 3-6 months: Progress accelerates. Patients will be able to walk with assistance and perform daily activities. Continuing physical therapy to build strength and mobility is crucial.
  • 6 months - 1 year: Patients will continue to gain strength and improve flexibility. Most patients will feel close to their natural selves by the one-year mark.
Can I return to my normal activities after knee replacement surgery?

Yes! Patients will be able to resume their normal activities after the recovery phases. The extent and progress usually depend on the surgery, overall health, and commitment to physical therapy. "Patients must strictly adhere to the post-surgery protocol and ensure follow-up with the knee specialist to make sure the progress is on the expected lines," says knee specialist in Mumbai, Dr. Niraj Vora.

Are there any long-term restrictions after knee replacement surgery?

After a successful recovery, patients will be able to perform their daily activities as before. However, patients must be cautious with high-impact activities like jumping, sprinting, and resistance training, which can put excessive stress on the knee.

What exercises should I continue to do after knee replacement surgery?

Weight management to reduce stress on the knee implant and regular exercise to strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility are the most important guidelines of the recovery phases. The exercises usually prescribed include walking, biking, swimming, light strength training, and stretching routines.

How often do I need to follow up with my doctor after knee replacement surgery?

"Follow-ups are frequently scheduled at the beginning phases of recovery to closely monitor healing and adjust physical therapy plans as needed. As we gradually go into the second and third phases, the follow-up frequency decreases," says knee replacement doctor in Mumbai, Dr Niraj Vora. However, follow-ups are considered absolutely necessary to ensure the patient is free from complications and making the right progress in recovery.