Blog/Recovery & Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy After Knee Surgery: Essential Guide

Your complete guide to physiotherapy exercises after knee replacement. Week-by-week program for optimal recovery.

By Dr. Deepthi Nandan Reddy•15 min read

Recovery Milestones

Week 1

Walk with walker, bend knee 45-65°

Week 2

Walk with cane, bend knee 70-80°

Week 4

Walk short distances unaided, bend knee 90°

Week 6

Climb stairs normally, bend knee 100°+

Week 8

Return to desk work, light activities

Week 12

Full range of motion, most activities resumed

Physiotherapy Exercise Program

Week 1-2: Early Recovery

Goal: Reduce swelling, prevent blood clots, begin gentle movement

Ankle Pumps

10-20 reps, every hour

Flex and point your foot to improve circulation

Quad Sets

10 reps, 3 times daily

Tighten thigh muscle, hold 5 seconds, release

Heel Slides

10 reps, 3 times daily

Slide heel toward buttock, bending knee

Straight Leg Raises

10 reps, 3 times daily

Lift leg 6 inches off bed, hold 5 seconds

Week 3-4: Building Mobility

Goal: Increase knee bend to 90°, improve walking distance

Seated Knee Bends

10 reps, 3 times daily

Sit and bend knee as far as comfortable

Standing Knee Bends

10 reps, 3 times daily

Hold support, bend knee behind you

Step-ups

10 reps each leg

Step up onto low step, alternate legs

Stationary Bike

10-15 minutes

Low resistance, focus on full pedal rotation

Week 5-8: Strengthening

Goal: Knee bend beyond 100°, walk without limp

Wall Squats

10 reps, hold 5 sec

Back against wall, slide down to 45°

Leg Press

3 sets of 10

Light weight, controlled movement

Balance Exercises

1-2 minutes each

Stand on one leg, use support if needed

Stair Climbing

1-2 flights

Practice going up and down normally

Week 9-12: Advanced Recovery

Goal: Full range of motion, return to normal activities

Lunges

10 reps each leg

Controlled forward lunges

Side Leg Raises

15 reps each side

Strengthen hip abductors

Swimming/Water Exercises

20-30 minutes

Low impact, full body workout

Walking Program

30+ minutes

Gradually increase distance and pace

Tips for Successful Recovery

Ice your knee for 20 minutes after exercises

Elevate your leg when resting to reduce swelling

Do exercises 3 times daily for best results

Pain during exercise is normal; sharp pain is not

Use pain medication 30 minutes before exercises if needed

Track your progress - it motivates recovery

Don't skip sessions even when you feel better

Communicate concerns with your physiotherapist

Stop Exercises If You Experience

•Sharp or severe pain
•Sudden swelling or warmth
•Popping or grinding sensation
•Knee giving way or instability

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