What to expect: physiotherapy after knee replacement

A realistic week-by-week look at recovery timelines, and how home physiotherapy fits in.

Recovery after a knee replacement is rarely linear — here is a realistic picture of what the first few months look like.

Week 1–2: mobility basics

Early sessions focus on gentle range-of-motion exercises, safe transfers in and out of bed, and pain management.

Week 3–6: building strength

As swelling reduces, physiotherapy shifts toward strengthening the muscles around the new joint and improving walking pattern.

Week 6–12: returning to routine

Most patients can manage stairs and short outdoor walks by this stage.

Why home sessions help

A physiotherapist who sees the actual home layout can adjust exercises and safety advice specifically for that environment.