Be prepared to be off work at least 4 to 6 weeks if a complete knee replacement. Maybe longer depending on how hard you work at it.
I had two knee replacements 4 months apart and posted my recovery on leisure several years ago.
They have you walking immediately after surgery. You will be on pain killers round the clock the first week and off and on for up to six weeks. You need to be on pain killers to complete therapy or your knee just won't recover well and you will lose rotation. You will also need to repeat therapy on your own throughout the day during those weeks. Therapy is generally 3 weeks at home with a therapist and another 4 weeks at a therapy clinic. You will need a driver the first couple of weeks at least.
The pain killer drugs will prevent you from driving. Also, it is extremely hard to get in and out of the car during that time. You will more than likely get a handicap sticker for several months.
On the bright side, I was walking half a mile after a month or so, then working out at the gym after 6 weeks. I was still spending most of the day doing therapy exercises all day long. Plan on spending a lot of time working your knee or it won't be worth it as you will lose rotation.
I highly recommend getting a bench, a stationary bike, and some other therapy equipment for home. I still do some of my therapy routines every day to stay limber and walk 1-1/2 miles early each morning. Scar is maybe 8 inches long and nowadays they make patch it up nicely. After three years mine are slightly noticeable.
On the bright side, you will be able to stand up and walk again! Plan on some time off to heal and repair.
Best! |
