Knee replacement surgery can be life-changing, offering pain relief, improved mobility, and a return to daily activities. However, the recovery process plays a critical role in the overall success of the surgery.
Patients often underestimate the complexity of rehabilitation and make mistakes that delay recovery or compromise surgical outcomes.
Understanding what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. To help you achieve the best possible outcome, we’ve outlined the most common mistakes to avoid after knee replacement surgery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After Knee Replacement
Recovering from knee replacement is not just about physical healing—it’s about following a holistic post-surgical plan. Many patients unknowingly make errors that slow down their recovery or even cause complications.
Skipping or Ignoring Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is not optional. It is a structured part of the rehabilitation process that directly impacts your range of motion and overall mobility. Patients who skip sessions or perform exercises inconsistently may experience joint stiffness, muscle atrophy, and reduced flexibility.
The joint replacement needs to be integrated into your body through active rehabilitation. Skipping therapy can also lead to long-term limitations in movement.
To avoid this, patients should adhere to their therapy schedule, communicate openly with their physical therapist, and follow prescribed at-home exercises diligently.
Doing Too Much Activity Too Soon
On the other end of the spectrum, some patients become overconfident and resume high-impact activities prematurely. The new joint, while durable, still needs time to settle and bond with surrounding tissues. Overexertion can lead to inflammation, increased pain, or even dislocation of the prosthetic joint.
Proper pacing, as guided by your physiotherapist or surgeon, is essential to prevent setbacks. The solution lies in following a graded activity schedule and recognizing pain or swelling as signs to slow down rather than push harder.
Not Taking Prescribed Medication Properly
Pain management and anti-inflammatory medications are prescribed to aid in a smoother recovery. Skipping doses, self-adjusting medications, or stopping them too soon can interfere with healing.
Some patients stop taking blood thinners early, increasing their risk of blood clots—a serious post-op complication.
Medication adherence is critical, not just for comfort but for physiological healing. Patients should follow the prescribed regimen, use reminders to avoid missed doses, and consult their doctor before making any changes.
Neglecting Pain Management
Pain is often feared but should not be ignored. Unmanaged pain can restrict your movement, make physical therapy more difficult, and lead to psychological stress or depression.
A balanced approach to pain control—using both medication and non-pharmacological methods like ice therapy or elevation—is essential. To manage pain effectively, patients should use prescribed medications responsibly and incorporate cold therapy, elevation, and rest into their routine as advised by healthcare providers.
Avoiding Movement or Being Overly Cautious
While caution is necessary, being overly fearful of movement can backfire. Immobilizing the leg or refusing to bend the knee out of fear can result in joint stiffness and scar tissue buildup. Movement, within safe parameters, promotes blood circulation, prevents clots, and supports muscle engagement. Gradual, guided activity is preferable to complete immobility.
Patients should follow their physical therapist’s instructions for safe movement and avoid self-imposed restrictions that hinder recovery.
Improper Care of the Surgical Wound
The surgical wound must be kept clean, dry, and protected from infection. Using unclean dressings, exposing the area to moisture, or ignoring signs of infection can delay healing and introduce serious complications. Redness, swelling, or unusual discharge should prompt immediate consultation with a healthcare provider.
The correct approach is to follow the wound care instructions provided at discharge, check the incision site daily, and report any abnormalities promptly.
Neglecting Nutrition and Hydration
Healing after surgery places extra demands on your body. Protein, vitamins (especially C and D), and minerals like zinc are crucial for tissue repair. Likewise, dehydration can lead to fatigue, reduced circulation, and slower recovery. A nutrient-rich, well-hydrated state is the foundation for effective healing.
Patients should aim to eat balanced meals, include plenty of fluids, and consider supplements if recommended by a healthcare provider.
Failing to Follow the Postoperative Plan
Every knee replacement surgery comes with a specific postoperative protocol tailored by the surgeon. Disregarding this plan, whether due to forgetfulness or intentional shortcuts, can have long-term consequences. These plans include weight-bearing guidelines, physical activity schedules, and signs to watch for complications.
To avoid this mistake, patients should review their discharge paperwork thoroughly, keep a recovery checklist, and clarify any confusing instructions with their care team.
Not Attending Follow-Up Appointments with Your Surgeon
Follow-up appointments allow your surgeon to assess healing, detect early signs of complications, and make necessary adjustments to your recovery plan. Skipping these appointments removes a vital layer of medical oversight. Even if you feel fine, imaging and examination may reveal underlying issues.
The solution is simple: prioritize and attend all scheduled follow-ups, and notify your provider immediately if you need to reschedule.
Returning to Work or Sports Prematurely
A common mistake, especially among active or working individuals, is returning to demanding activities too soon. Premature return to work or sports can compromise the prosthetic joint and increase the risk of re-injury. Clearance from your healthcare provider should always precede any attempt to resume physical or occupational demands.
The best strategy is to be honest about your job or activity demands and get written clearance along with specific do’s and don’ts from your surgeon or therapist.
What Exercises Can You Not Do After Knee Replacement?
- High-impact exercises such as running, jumping, and heavy weightlifting should be avoided after knee replacement surgery.
- These activities can place excessive stress on the artificial joint, increasing the risk of wear or loosening of the implant.
- Low-impact alternatives are recommended, including:
- Walking
- Stationary cycling
- Swimming
- Gentle strength training
- These options help restore mobility and build strength without compromising the implant’s integrity.
What Is the Best Way to Sit After Knee Replacement Surgery?
The best way to sit after knee replacement surgery is to choose a firm chair with armrests and a straight back. The knees should be kept slightly lower than the hips, and deep, soft couches or low chairs should be avoided to reduce strain.
Patients should avoid crossing their legs and should make sure the surgical leg is positioned comfortably, with good support to avoid twisting or compression of the joint.
What Should I Be Doing 6 Weeks After Knee Replacement?
By six weeks after surgery, most patients are expected to be walking independently, engaging in routine daily activities, and continuing their physical therapy exercises. Pain should be significantly reduced, and range of motion should be steadily improving.
Patients should also be working on rebuilding leg strength and stamina through guided physical activity while continuing to monitor their surgical site for any signs of complications.
FAQs About Knee Replacement
Are There Any Permanent Restrictions After Total Knee Replacement?
Yes, certain activities such as running, jumping and repetitive heavy lifting may be permanently restricted to protect the artificial joint. These precautions help extend the lifespan of the prosthetic and reduce the risk of loosening or wear.
What Are the Biggest Complaints After Knee Replacement?
The biggest complaints after knee replacement often revolve around lingering stiffness, which can limit mobility and make everyday tasks challenging. This stiffness usually stems from scar tissue development or insufficient range-of-motion exercises during early recovery.
To address this issue effectively, patients should engage in a consistent, progressive physical therapy program focused on stretching and mobility. Incorporating exercises such as heel slides and gentle leg extensions—under the supervision of a physiotherapist—can help regain flexibility and reduce tightness around the joint.
How Do I Know My Knee Surgery Went Wrong?
If you experience increasing pain, instability, limited range of motion, swelling, or signs of infection beyond the expected recovery period, these could be indicators that something is wrong. A failed implant, improper alignment, or undetected infection may require further evaluation or intervention.
Should I Force My Knee to Bend After Knee Replacement?
You should not force your knee to bend beyond its current range of comfort. While flexibility is a key recovery goal, pushing too hard can cause inflammation or damage. Instead, progress should be gradual, and all stretching and bending exercises should be performed under the guidance of a physiotherapist.
What Can Go Wrong in Knee Replacement Surgery?
Potential complications include infection, blood clots, nerve damage, implant loosening, and joint misalignment. While these complications are rare, awareness and early detection are crucial. Proper postoperative care, timely follow-ups, and adherence to medical advice reduce the likelihood of these issues.
Why No Pillow After Surgery?
Patients are typically advised not to place a pillow under the knee after surgery because it can encourage the joint to heal in a bent position, leading to flexion contracture. Instead, a pillow should be placed under the ankle to promote full knee extension and optimal healing alignment.