At 3 months after your total knee replacement, most patients are walking comfortably, have returned to driving, and are noticing continued improvement in strength and flexibility. The knee is still healing internally and will continue to improve for up to 12 months. Swelling, aching with activity, and occasional clicking are all normal at this stage.
What to Expect at 3 Months
By 3 months, most patients are walking without walking aids, have returned to driving (if right knee: confirm with Dr Liew), and are comfortably managing most daily activities. Some residual swelling after exercise or activity is completely normal and will continue to settle.
Physiotherapy exercises should continue — strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles remains important throughout the first 12 months. If you have not yet started hydrotherapy, you may do so from 4 weeks post-operatively.
Activity and Exercise
Low-impact activity is encouraged: walking, cycling, swimming, and gentle stretching are all beneficial. High-impact activities — running, jumping, heavy lifting — should be avoided long-term to protect the implant and minimise wear.
Most patients return to golf (walking, not riding) at 3–4 months. Other sport timelines depend on the specific activity and your individual recovery — discuss with Dr Liew at your next review.
"At 3 months, you are well on your way. Keep progressing — the best improvement is still ahead."
— Dr Chien-Wen LiewFrequently Asked Questions
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