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Post Operative Period

Understanding the post-operative period sets realistic expectations and empowers you to play an active role in your own recovery.

Dr Chien-Wen Liew
Orthopaedics 360

Most hip and knee replacement patients follow a predictable and reassuring recovery trajectory — with meaningful improvement at each milestone. Understanding what to expect at each stage helps you measure your progress accurately and know when to seek help. This guide outlines the typical post-operative journey from discharge to full recovery.

01

Week 1–2: Home from Hospital

The first two weeks at home are focused on pain management, wound care, and gradually increasing independence. Most patients experience significant pain that is well-controlled with the medications provided. Take these regularly as directed — do not wait for pain to become severe.

Keep the wound covered with the Hypafix dressing. Elevate the limb when resting. Ice packs applied over the dressing for 20 minutes several times a day reduce swelling significantly in the first week.

Your 2-week review with Dr Liew is an important milestone — wound inspection, X-ray review, and discussion of your progress and next steps.

02

Week 3–6: Gaining Independence

By week 3–6, most patients are walking with one stick or have progressed to no aids. Driving becomes possible for many patients at 4–6 weeks (automatic vehicle; right knee patients take longer than left knee patients). Confirm with Dr Liew before driving.

Swimming and hydrotherapy are permitted from 4 weeks post-operatively. Physiotherapy continues — this period is critical for regaining strength and range of motion.

Post Operative Period
Watch — Dr Liew Explains
Post Operative Period

Watch Dr Chien-Wen Liew discuss this topic.

03

Month 2–6: Increasing Activity

Most patients feel dramatically better by 2–3 months. Walking is comfortable, sleep is improved, and daily activities are largely unrestricted. Continue to build strength through low-impact exercise.

Avoid high-impact activity long-term — running, jumping, and heavy contact sport place significant repetitive load on the implant and are not recommended. Golf (walking), cycling, and swimming are all compatible with a joint replacement long-term.

04

Frequently Asked Questions

Sudden worsening pain, significant new swelling, warmth around the joint, redness spreading from the wound, or fever (above 38.5°C) should prompt immediate contact with our rooms or your nearest emergency department.
Sedentary or desk-based work: 2–4 weeks. Light physical work: 6–8 weeks. Heavy physical or manual work: 12+ weeks, depending on the nature of your role. Confirm your individual timeline with Dr Liew.
Yes. Swelling after activity can persist for up to 12 months after joint replacement. Elevation, icing, and compression stockings help manage it in the early period.

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Medical Disclaimer: General educational purposes only. Individual outcomes vary. AHPRA Registered Specialist.