Total Knee Replacement Recovery: What’s Normal and What to Expect

Total Knee Replacement (TKR): Is This Normal? 

The Question Everyone Asks: Is this normal? 

Recovering from a total knee replacement (TKR) can feel overwhelming. Your daily life is impacted in so many ways: walking, sleeping, caring for yourself and others, and even your ability to manage pain. The recovery process is full of ups and downs, and it’s completely normal to wonder if what you’re experiencing is typical. 

The most important thing to remember is that TKR recovery is not linear. You’ll have good days and, occasionally, setbacks. These bumps in the road are part of the journey—use them as reminders that healing takes time, and better days are ahead. To help you feel more confident in your recovery, here’s a guide to common post-TKR experiences: 

Common Recovery Experiences 

Sleep Troubles 

Sleep disruption is one of the most common complaints post-TKR. For the first few weeks (and sometimes up to 12 weeks), getting restful sleep can be a challenge due to pain and discomfort. Finding a comfortable sleeping position may take trial and error, and your knee may wake you several times during the night. Don’t worry—this improves with time. Focus on finding a position that allows you to rest as best as possible. 

Swelling, Heat, and Redness 

Inflammation is a natural part of healing. After a TKR, expect significant swelling, warmth, and occasional redness around your knee. With proper rehabilitation, the severity of swelling should decrease as you progress. However, it’s normal to experience swelling after increased activity, new exercises, or prolonged time on your feet. This can continue for up to 12 months post-surgery. 

Pain 

Pain is a typical part of the TKR recovery process. For most, pain diminishes over time but may persist for 8-10 months in rare cases. By following a structured rehab program, pain should significantly reduce by the 12-week mark. Remember, if your pain feels unmanageable or unusual, consult your healthcare provider. 

Exercise: Less Can Be More 

A common misconception is that doing more exercise or walking will speed up recovery. In the first two months post-op, this mindset can actually hinder your progress. During the initial four weeks, prioritizing pain and inflammation management is essential. Trust your physiotherapist to guide you on how much activity is appropriate and when to increase intensity. 

Why Work With Jointli? 

At Jointli, our specialised team offers regular check-ins to address your questions and concerns, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way. Knowing what’s normal—and when to seek help—can make all the difference in your recovery journey. Call us today to get started! 

Note: This information is a general guide. Seek urgent medical attention if you experience signs of infection, such as excessive redness, swelling, or fever.