Knee replacement (also called knee arthroplasty) helps patients find relief to chronic pain. After full recovery, most adults have improved range of motion and can return to normal activities. But what if the pain persists? Know what type of pain is normal after total knee replacement surgery and when you should contact your physician for further care. Show
What’s NormalYou can expect some pain and swelling for a few months after surgery. Improved surgical techniques and new technology, such as robotic-arm assisted technology, makes the knee replacement recovery process quicker and less painful. Nevertheless, pain and swelling following your procedure is to be expected, especially at night and with activity. Your body just went through a major surgery and needs time to heal. Most people can resume daily activities with reduced pain approximately three to six weeks after surgery. Full recovery can take anywhere from four months to a year. How to Relieve PainImmediately after surgery, your physician will prescribe pain medication for short-term relief. Possible medications include acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications or stronger prescription pain relievers, when necessary. Take all medications as instructed. Attending your physical therapy sessions can help with pain. The main goals of physical therapy are to restore movement and strengthen your knee joint, but gentle exercise can also help lessen postoperative pain. Your physical therapist will give you a set of exercises that are safe for your healing knee joint. During early recovery, you may be prescribed to walk for 30 minutes and exercise 20 to 30 minutes, two to three times daily. Mild swelling in your knee is normal for up to six months after surgery. To reduce inflammation, slightly elevate your leg and apply a cold pack. Wearing compression socks can also help reduce swelling. What’s Not NormalNotify your physician immediately for possible signs of complications from surgery. While you may not be living completely free of discomfort, you shouldn’t be struggling with excessive amounts of pain either. Learn to recognize these signs of surgery complications:
If you suspect you have a blood clot, infection or implant failure, call your physician or orthopedic surgeon to explain symptoms. Your provider will give you instructions on further care. In the case of implant loosening, you may need to discuss revision surgery to repair the knee after recent wear and tear. If you are considering knee replacement, don’t let pain scare you away. Most people experience less pain with their new joint over time. Your health care team will also educate you about how to avoid possible complications. Ask your physician if joint replacement is a good fit for you. Have more questions about total knee replacement? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions.
If you have arthritis or damage that caused wear and tear to the knee, you may have had a knee replacement to restore function to the joint. After surgery, some pain is normal. About 30 percent of patients experience moderate pain after a total knee replacement. However, if the pain lasts for several weeks following surgery, it may be a cause for concern. Normal Postsurgical PainA provider will give you anesthesia during a total knee replacement to put you to sleep. After the anesthesia wears off, it is typical to experience moderate to severe pain, swelling and bruising. Your physician will prescribe medications for postoperative pain relief. You may experience some knee pain during daily activities and at night for several weeks following your surgery. Bending and kneeling may be uncomfortable. These side effects should subside with proper recovery and care. Abnormal Postsurgical PainThese factors are signs you may have a complication:
Reach out to your physician or orthopaedic surgeon if you experience ongoing pain after your knee replacement. They can help you determine next steps for treatment or pain relief. 3 Steps for an Easier Recovery
Recover with the UM Rehabilitation NetworkAfter a knee replacement, having the right recovery plan that’s tailored especially to you is important. The University of Maryland Rehabilitation Network (UMRN) offers first-class physical rehabilitation services across Maryland, from community hospitals to an academic medical center. Get better faster with UMRN’s expertise. More to Read
Is it normal to still have pain 4 weeks after knee replacement?After surgery, some pain is normal. About 30 percent of patients experience moderate pain after a total knee replacement. However, if the pain lasts for several weeks following surgery, it may be a cause for concern.
Should I still have pain 8 weeks after knee replacement?After a total knee replacement, I'll see my patients again in 6-8 weeks. Often, they won't be full of the joys of spring at this point. The knee will often still be sore, and we'll be managing this with physio once or twice a week, ice packs and over the counter painkillers.
Why is there so much pain after knee replacement?Loosening of the implant from the underlying bone can cause significant pain. Factors such as high-impact activities, excessive body weight, and general wear-and-tear of the plastic spacer between the two metal components of the implant can cause the implant to become loose.
Should I still have pain 3 months after knee replacement?Swelling and bruising can continue for three months or more following knee replacement surgery. However, it varies from patient to patient and depends on the condition you were in before surgery. Many patients are back to their activities without the pain they had before surgery by this stage of recovery.
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How long should pain last after knee replacement surgery
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