The vast majority of individuals who have knee replacement surgery experience a dramatic reduction in joint pain and a significant improvement in their ability to participate in the activities of daily living. However, knee replacement surgery does not remove all functional boundaries; for example, it will not allow you to engage in running and jumping activities.

In the weeks following total knee joint replacement, certain limitations are placed on every patient’s activities. Using a cane or walker may be necessary for several weeks. Kneeling and jumping will be forbidden. It may be 4-6 weeks before driving is permitted. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions.

When fully recovered, most patients can return to work and recreation. However, it is important to be aware that, with normal use and activity, every knee replacement develops some wear in its plastic cushion. This normal wear can be accelerated by excessive activity or weight, and can cause loosening of the knee replacement or significant wear of the plastic cushion. If this happens, a revision (repeat surgery) may be needed. Your surgeon will likely recommend that x-rays be taken every year or every other year to monitor the condition of the implant.

To reduce the potential need for a revision due to excess wear, some types of work—such as construction, certain types of carpentry, and occupations that involve repeated or high climbing—may not be advisable for individuals with a knee replacement. Sports that place high stress on the knee replacement, such as skiing, basketball, contact sports, distance running, and frequent jumping, should be avoided. Also, body weight should be kept as close to normal as possible.

Your Knee Care surgeon will recommend an appropriate level of activity for you following knee replacement surgery. In general, a good rule of thumb is that acceptable physical activities should:

• Not cause pain, including pain felt later
• Not jar the joint, as happens with running or jumping
• Not place the joint in the extremes of its range of motion
• Be pleasurable