TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT
For those patients who have end-stage arthritis and debilitating symptoms, total knee replacement remains the best option for pain relief and regain function.
What is total knee replacement (TKR)?
There are different types of knee replacements. Options include:
- Total knee replacement: the whole knee is replaced
- Partial knee replacement: only the affected part of the knee is replaced
- Bilateral knee replacement: both knees are replaced at the same time
In most cases, people have knee replacement surgery because they have OA. Total knee replacement is a very commonly performed operation.
A total knee replacement is a surgical procedure whereby the diseased knee joint is replaced with artificial material. In Singapore, the procedure is also referred to as total knee arthroplasty so the two terms are interchangeable.
During a total knee replacement, the end of the femur bone is removed and replaced with a metal shell.
How long does it take to recover from TKR?
The timeline for recovering varies from patient to patient, but typically the rehabilitation process takes 10-12 weeks of therapy to reach goals of achieving range of motion, strength, and performing functional activities such as standing from sitting, walking, and climbing up/down stairs independently – without difficulty or pain.
Most people will be able to drive within 4 to 6 weeks. However, people must wait until their knee bends enough to allow them to get into the car and sit comfortably. They will also need to develop enough muscle control to allow for safe braking and accelerating.
Do I need physiotherapy after the surgery?
YES. The surgery is just the beginning of the knee rehabilitation process.
Swelling, stiffness, and strength are necessary to improve in order to decrease pain and progress therapy to higher level activities. They will be the primary focus of therapy early on to set up the patient for successful rehabilitation. It will take time for the knee tissues to heal and gradual loading to improve strength and flexibility.
What can I expect from the physiotherapy?
This may surprise you, but you can expect to start PT within a day of your operation.
A physical therapist will come to your hospital room and show you exercises you should start doing right away. You’ll have fresh stitches and a brand-new body part. Trust that the moves are safe, though. They’re designed to:
- Strengthen your leg
- Restore knee movement
- Help you walk on your new knee
A physical therapist will guide each patient through total knee replacement exercises. Having a PT provide guidance will be helpful as it can be difficult to engage the muscles of the leg in order to achieve the motion into flexion and extension. As mentioned above, the motion of extension (straightening the knee) and flexion (bending the knee) will be a focus early on with the rehab process.
Just don’t be afraid to use your brand-new knee!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recovery time for a total knee replacement?
Most people can expect to return to normal daily activities within 3 to 4 months after a total knee replacement, but full recovery can take up to 6 months or more depending on your age, fitness level, and consistency with physiotherapy. The first 6 weeks are crucial as this is when your knee regains motion, strength, and balance. Regular physiotherapy, guided exercises, and proper swelling control can significantly shorten recovery time.
At Rapid Physiocare, we monitor your progress closely and adjust your program to make each stage of recovery smoother and faster.
How long does it take to walk normally after total knee replacement?
Most patients begin walking with a walker or crutches within a few days after surgery, under the supervision of a physiotherapist. By 4 to 6 weeks, many can walk short distances independently, and by 8 to 12 weeks, walking usually feels more natural and stable. However, this varies depending on pain control, muscle strength, and balance. The key is gradual progression.Overdoing it too early can delay healing.
At Rapid Physiocare, your physiotherapist will teach you safe walking techniques and proper weight distribution to help you regain your stride confidently.
What is the average age for knee replacement?
The average age for total knee replacement is around 60 to 70 years old, but age alone isn’t the deciding factor. Increasingly, younger adults in their 40s and 50s undergo the procedure due to early arthritis, sports injuries, or occupational strain. What matters most is the level of pain, joint damage, and how much it limits your lifestyle. If conservative treatments no longer help, surgery may be the right step followed by guided physiotherapy to ensure long-term mobility and knee health.
What is the fastest way to recover from a knee replacement?
The fastest recovery happens when you follow a structured physiotherapy plan consistently. Focus on these essentials:
- Move early (with guidance): Start gentle exercises within the first few days to prevent stiffness.
- Control swelling and pain: Use ice packs, elevation, and prescribed medications.
- Follow your home exercise program daily: These help rebuild muscle strength and joint flexibility.
- Avoid long bed rest: Staying active safely improves blood flow and healing.
- Eat well: Adequate protein and hydration speeds tissue repair.
Our patients at Rapid Physiocare typically see faster improvement because we combine hands-on therapy, movement retraining, and personalized home routines that fit into your daily schedule.
What are the mistakes people make after knee surgery?
Common mistakes that delay recovery include:
- Skipping physiotherapy sessions or doing exercises incorrectly
- Sitting too long or avoiding movement out of fear of pain
- Not using walking aids properly, causing uneven strain
- Overexerting early climbing stairs or lifting before the knee is ready
- Ignoring swelling or wound care instructions
These mistakes can cause stiffness, delayed healing, or even setbacks. Our team at Rapid Physiocare helps patients avoid these pitfalls through one-on-one guidance, home exercise coaching, and regular follow-ups to ensure safe progress.
How many times a day should I do exercises after knee replacement?
During the early phase (first 6 weeks), your physiotherapist will usually recommend 2–3 short exercise sessions daily, each lasting about 15–20 minutes. These exercises focus on improving knee bending, straightening, and muscle activation. It’s better to do short, frequent sessions rather than one long session. Consistency matters more than intensity. As you heal, the routine becomes more advanced and less frequent. Rapid Physiocare’s physiotherapists create custom home plans that balance recovery with rest so you don’t overload the new joint.
How long is physical therapy after knee replacement?
Most patients need 8 to 12 weeks of structured physiotherapy, though some continue with maintenance sessions up to 6 months for strength and confidence. In the beginning, therapy focuses on reducing swelling and restoring movement. Later sessions work on rebuilding strength, balance, and coordination so you can return to normal daily activities walking, climbing stairs, or even light sports. Our goal at Rapid Physiocare is to help you reach full independence, not just discharge you when the pain stops.
