Knee Replacement
Knee replacement is a surgery that replaces the damaged surfaces of the knee joint with metal and plastic implants. It is most often done for advanced knee arthritis that no longer responds to non-surgical care. It is one of the most common orthopedic surgeries in the United States, and most patients report meaningful pain relief afterward.
Procedure overview
What happens during Knee Replacement?
- Performed under general or spinal anesthesia; your care team will discuss which is right for you.
- Surgery typically takes about one to two hours.
- Many patients go home the same day or after a one-night hospital stay, depending on health and home support.
- Most people are up and walking with a walker or cane within a day, and physical therapy usually starts right away.
- Many daily activities resume within about six to twelve weeks; full recovery, including strength and stamina, commonly takes up to a year.
Recovery
What is recovery like after Knee Replacement?
Recovery from knee replacement is gradual and driven by physical therapy. Most people walk with a walker or cane within a day and switch to a cane over the following weeks. Therapy focuses early on regaining the ability to straighten and bend the knee. The range you build in the first six weeks matters a great deal. Many return to desk work in about four to six weeks and to driving once they can control the leg safely. Swelling and warmth can linger for months, and full strength and stamina commonly take up to a year. Call your surgeon about fever, calf pain, drainage, or spreading redness.
Top joint replacement surgeons
Alan S. Nasar
VerifiedAleksandr Khaimov
VerifiedAndrew L. Rosen
VerifiedBertrand P. Kaper
VerifiedCharles Moon
VerifiedChristopher J. Chen
VerifiedDaniel C. Allison
VerifiedDavid R. Whiddon
VerifiedFriedrich Boettner
VerifiedGeorge J. Haidukewych
VerifiedGeorge K. Myo
VerifiedJames Kayvanfar
VerifiedJeremy B. McCandless
VerifiedJohn E. Samani
VerifiedJohn G. Kloss
VerifiedJohn T. Kroner
VerifiedJoseph D. Maratt
VerifiedLige M. Kaplan
VerifiedMichael D. Miller
VerifiedMichael J. Bronson
VerifiedNitin Goyal
VerifiedPaul B. Jacob
VerifiedPaul N. Morton
VerifiedPeter B. Salamon
VerifiedCommon questions
How long does knee replacement recovery take?
Most people return to everyday activities within about six to twelve weeks. Strength and endurance continue to improve for up to a year, and physical therapy plays a big role in the result.
How long do knee implants last?
Many modern knee implants last 15 to 20 years or more, though results vary with activity level, weight, and other factors. Your surgeon can discuss what to expect in your situation.
Am I a candidate for knee replacement?
Surgery is typically considered when arthritis pain limits daily life and non-surgical options like physical therapy, medication, and injections no longer help enough. Only an evaluation by a surgeon can confirm whether it is right for you.
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What conditions does Knee Replacement treat?
This page provides general information only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified physician about your specific situation. Listings are not endorsements.