Walking After Knee Surgery: What to Expect

When you’re preparing for knee surgery, one of your biggest concerns might be, “How soon can I walk?” It’s an important question because walking is vital to your recovery process. At Ortho Westmount, our veteran expert orthopedic surgeons offer knee arthroscopy, partial knee replacement, and total knee replacement surgery; through decades of combined experience, our team has helped people from wide-ranging backgrounds overcome knee injuries, and we have learned valuable lessons about the recovery process along the way.

As you will see, walking after surgery is a core part of your recovery. Whether you’ve had a total knee replacement or another procedure, here’s what you can expect—and how to get back on your feet safely.

Is Walking Good After Knee Replacement Surgery?

Yes, walking is not only good but essential for your full recovery. While it might feel challenging at first, those first steps help restore motion in your new joint, helping with stiffness and preventing pain in the long term. Walking also promotes healing by reducing knee pain and swelling and encouraging circulation.

Many patients wonder if they’ll be able to walk right after knee replacement surgery. The answer is yes—but you may start with the help of assistive devices like walkers, crutches, or walking sticks to support your balance and reduce the risk of falls.

Using Walking Aids After Knee Surgery

In the early days following surgery, walking aids are essential. Devices like walkers or crutches allow you to start walking safely while protecting your knee joint. Using these aids also helps you focus on proper posture and alignment.

Over time, as your strength improves, you’ll gradually reduce your dependence on these aids. Your physical therapist will guide you through this transition, providing specific knee exercises to improve strength and stability in the joint.

After Knee Surgery: When Can I Walk?

Timing depends on factors like your overall health, the type of surgery, and how your body responds. If you’ve had a total knee replacement, you’ll likely start walking with assistance within 24 hours of the surgery. For simpler procedures, like knee arthroscopy, walking may begin even sooner. If you’re asking, “When can I walk comfortably after a knee replacement?” The answer often depends on your commitment to physical therapy and your body’s healing.
Here’s a general timeline:

• First Few Days: Begin walking short distances using a walker or crutches.
• Several Weeks: Gradually increase your steps, focusing on building endurance without overdoing it. You may continue using assistive devices, as needed. Continue physical therapy exercises to regain strength and mobility. 
• After Six Weeks: Many patients can walk unassisted for longer distances and perform basic activities without discomfort.

Tips for Safe Walking After Knee Surgery

As you build strength and independence, it’s important to take precautions to avoid injury and ensure smooth progress. Here’s how:

1. Use Assistive Devices as Needed: Stick to walkers or walking sticks until your physical therapist advises otherwise.
2. Take It Slow: Short, frequent walks–with rest periods between sessions–are more effective than long sessions that might strain your knee.
3. Avoid Long Periods in the Same Position: Prolonged sitting or standing can hinder blood flow and increase stiffness; aim to change positions every hour.
4. Wear Supportive Shoes: Footwear with proper arch support and good traction will provide stability and prevent slips as you get more comfortable walking again.
5. Listen to Your Body: Rest when needed and address signs of discomfort to ease pain.

Managing Pain and Discomfort

It’s normal to experience pain and swelling as your knee heals. However, your care team will provide a comprehensive plan for pain relief, including medication, icing, and therapy. Movement is crucial—not just for comfort, but also to prevent stiffness and complications like blood clots.
For severe cases or ongoing discomfort, your orthopaedic surgeon may adjust your treatment plan to optimize recovery. At Ortho Westmount, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Regaining Long-Term Knee Mobility

Walking after knee surgery is an essential part of your journey to recovery. It might not always be easy, but with the right support and commitment, you can regain mobility, independence, and freedom from severe pain. Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, and yoga can further improve your knee mobility while protecting your new knee. These activities are especially helpful after total knee replacement surgery to maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness.
Patients often ask, “How can I resume activities after knee replacement surgery?” The key is to follow a gradual, structured program, consisting of targeted knee exercises. 

What Makes Ortho Westmount Different?

With state-of-the-art facilities and a team of world-renowned experts, we prioritize your comfort and recovery. Whether you need guidance on our fee guide for procedures or detailed post-operative care instructions, we’re here to make your experience seamless.

Ready to get moving? Reach out to Ortho Westmount today and discover how we can help you achieve the best possible outcome from your knee surgery.

References: 

• https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=custom.ab_totalkneereplacement_ac
• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/8512-knee-replacement
• https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/selfcare-instructions/taking-care-of-your-new-knee-joint

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