The first week after knee surgery is often the most challenging — but it’s also when a lot of important healing begins.
Knowing what to expect can ease your mind and help you feel more prepared for the journey ahead.
Here’s a day-by-day look at what many patients experience during the first seven days after knee surgery:
Day 1: Surgery Day
Right after surgery, you’ll likely feel groggy from anesthesia.
Your medical team will monitor you closely and manage your pain with medication. Most patients begin gentle movements — like ankle pumps — almost immediately to promote circulation.
Depending on your surgery type, you might even stand or take a few steps with help.
Key Focus: Rest, manage pain, and follow all post-op instructions carefully.
Days 2–3: Managing Pain and Swelling
These early days can feel rough. Expect swelling, stiffness, and discomfort. Ice therapy and elevating your leg are critical to control swelling.
You’ll start physical therapy (PT) exercises — possibly with a therapist visiting your room or home — to slowly regain movement.
Key Focus: Stick to your pain management plan, begin gentle exercises, and stay hydrated.
Day 4: Moving Gets a Little Easier
By day four, many patients notice slight improvements in mobility, though stiffness is still very common. You may transition from stronger pain meds to milder ones as needed.
You’ll continue your exercises, focusing on bending (flexion) and straightening (extension) the knee carefully.
Key Focus: Keep moving as much as safely possible without overdoing it.
Day 5: Watch for Signs of Progress (and Problems)
You should start seeing small signs of progress — like easier transitions from sitting to standing.
However, stay alert for warning signs like excessive redness, fever, or unusual drainage, which could indicate infection. Always call your doctor if something doesn’t seem right.
Key Focus: Monitor your body closely and celebrate even the tiniest improvements.
Day 6: Building Your Routine
By now, routines start to feel more normal. Ice, elevate, move, rest — repeat.
PT exercises become slightly more demanding, but they are critical to avoid long-term stiffness. Following a simple daily routine can help you feel more in control.
Key Focus: Stay consistent with your exercises and icing schedule.
Day 7: Reflect and Reset
Congratulations — you’ve made it through the first week!
Take time to reflect on how far you’ve come, even if progress feels slow. This is a marathon, not a sprint.
You might still rely on walking aids like crutches or a walker, and that’s completely normal. Focus on the fact that healing is happening — even if you can’t see it yet.
Key Focus: Stay positive, patient, and keep following your care team’s advice.
Final Thoughts
The first seven days after knee surgery are all about laying the foundation for long-term recovery.
It’s normal to experience pain, swelling, frustration, and fatigue — but with patience, support, and persistence, you’ll be amazed at how much stronger you’ll feel each week.
Remember: every small step forward is a victory. Healing takes time — and you’re doing an incredible job.
