Preparing for Your Knee Replacement Surgery: What You Need to Know

Preparing for knee replacement surgery, also known as a total knee arthroplasty (TKA), can feel overwhelming. While every surgeon and care team may have slightly different protocols, most knee replacement procedures follow a similar overall journey. Understanding what to expect before, during, and after surgery can help you feel more prepared and confident throughout the process.

Before Surgery: Preparing Your Body and Your Home

In the weeks leading up to surgery, your care team will focus on preparing both your body and your environment for recovery.

You may be asked to adjust certain medications, supplements, or vitamins before surgery. Always follow the specific guidance provided by your surgeon or medical team, and be sure to discuss any prescription medications you take regularly.

Many surgeons also encourage pre-operative exercises to help strengthen the muscles around the knee. Building strength and flexibility ahead of time can support smoother recovery after surgery. Most surgeons offer recommended pre-operative exercise routines, be sure to ask your care team what plan is best for you.

At home, simple preparations can make a big difference. Removing trip hazards, arranging help for the first few days, and planning transportation can help you focus on healing once you return home.

The Day of Surgery: What to Expect

On the day of surgery, you’ll arrive at the hospital or surgical center ahead of your scheduled procedure to allow time for check-in, preparation, and meeting with your care team. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, such as pants or shorts with an elastic waistband and shoes that are easy to put on and take off.

You should plan to have a friend or family member drive you to the facility and take you home after surgery. Even if your procedure is scheduled as outpatient, you will not be able to drive yourself due to anesthesia and pain medications.

After surgery, most patients are encouraged to begin gentle movement the same day or shortly afterward. This may include standing, walking short distances with assistance, or working with a physical therapist. Early weight bearing and movement is a normal and important part of recovery, helping reduce stiffness and support circulation.

Before you leave the facility, your care team will review discharge instructions, pain management, and next steps for recovery, including physical therapy and follow-up appointments.

The First Days After Surgery: Managing Pain, Swelling, and Movement

In the days immediately following surgery, swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common and expected. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to keep the incision clean and dry, when it is safe to shower, and how often to change your bandage if needed. It is helpful to check the incision daily for signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, or fever. Because the knee bends frequently during early rehabilitation, following your doctor’s instructions carefully and keeping the area protected can support smooth healing.

Physical therapy usually begins soon after surgery. Early sessions focus on safe movement, walking, and gentle range-of-motion exercises. Many patients start with a walker or cane and gradually transition away from assistive devices as strength and confidence improve.

Rest, elevation, and managing swelling are key during this phase. Progress may feel gradual at first, and that’s normal.

The First Weeks After Surgery: Building Strength and Regaining Function

Rehabilitation is a critical part of knee replacement recovery. Over the weeks following surgery, physical therapy helps restore strength, flexibility, and function.

Therapy goals typically include:

• Improving knee bending and straightening

  • By three weeks:

    • Bend knee to at least 100 degrees (flexion)

    • Straighten knee to 0 degrees (extension)

• Increasing walking distance and stability

• Returning to everyday activities safely

  
  

Recovery timelines vary from person to person, but most patients see the greatest improvement in the first several weeks and continue progressing in the months that follow. Recovery does not happen overnight, and some days will feel better than others. Temporary setbacks such as increased swelling or soreness are common, especially as activity levels increase.

Monitoring recovery over time helps provide a clearer picture of progress. Consistency with therapy, movement, and communication with your care team plays a major role in long-term success.

If you’re preparing for knee replacement surgery, your surgeon and care team are your best source of guidance. They can help tailor expectations and recovery plans to your individual needs. Ask your surgeon about StrideLink to support your recovery by tracking your movement, monitoring progress, and providing ongoing insights between visits.