Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid After Knee Replacement Surgery

Estimated Reading Time: 7 minutes

Published on: 15 Oct 2025

Each year, more than 800,000 people in the US get knee replacement surgery, thinking of it as the ultimate fix.

But surgery is just the beginning. What actually determines your recovery, mobility, and strength is what you do afterwards. Unfortunately, this is where many patients often go wrong. Results? Delayed recovery, persistent pain, and sometimes even worsened outcomes.

If you or your loved ones have recently had knee replacement surgery, read this blog. It lists the top 5 mistakes to avoid after surgery. Also, it talks about what to do instead to bounce back better and faster.

First, What Happens During Knee Replacement

Knee replacement (or knee arthroplasty) is one of the most successful orthopaedic procedures, with 90–95% of total knee replacements still functioning well after 10 years or more.

The surgery replaces the damaged or worn-out parts of the knee with artificial plastic and metal components. This helps restore mobility and alleviate chronic pain. Broadly, knee replacement surgeries have two types:

Total Knee Replacement: The procedure involves replacing the entire knee joint, including the femur, tibia, and patella.

Partial Knee Replacement: In this procedure, only a partial part of the knee is replaced, generally either the outer or the inner part.

Also Read: Why Osteoporosis is Different from Osteoarthritis? How To Detect, Prevent and Manage Osteoporosis?

When Should You Consider Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee pain is common. Guess what? It affects almost a quarter of the adult population. But that doesn't mean you need surgery. So, how do you know when it's time to consider a replacement? Here are the signs:

You're facing consistent and severe knee pain that is making you unable to do even day-to-day tasks.

You're dealing with age-related immobility. In fact, most people who have knee replacements are between 50 and 80 years old.

You're dealing with severe knee conditions, like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or joint injury.

Women are more prone to

If imaging reveals that your knee cartilage is completely worn away, surgery can be a practical option.

You've tried everything from physical therapy to corticosteroid shots, but nothing works for you.

Did You Know: Women are more likely to need knee replacements than men. Why? Due to anatomical differences, hormonal changes (especially after menopause), and higher rates of osteoarthritis in women.

If you are experiencing any of the above signs or disorders, consider consulting an orthopedic specialist to determine if you require knee replacement surgery.

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid After Knee Replacement Surgery

Once you've had the surgery done, it's easy to assume the hardest part is over. However, your recovery depends more on what you do after surgery than the surgery itself.

Here are the five common mistakes that can delay your recovery, limit your mobility, and cause severe pain even after a successful knee replacement surgery.

Underestimating the Role of Physiotherapy

Patients often think that skipping physiotherapy won't do much harm (instead, it will be beneficial) after surgery.

Fact: Post-knee replacement surgery, physical therapy is important for regaining strength and flexibility. In fact, prescribed physiotherapy prevents further complications.

What to Do:

To tackle muscle stiffness and the formation of scar tissue, it is important to complete the recommended exercise plan.

Based on your body's response and the physiotherapist's advice, you may even extend the plan.

Thinking Only 'Complete' Bed Rest Can Help

A lot of patients avoid moving after surgery because they're afraid of pain or damaging the joint.

Fact: Too much rest can actually slow down your recovery. Even doctors (and studies) support that gentle movement is medicine. It prevents the buildup of stiffness or soreness, thereby promoting a faster recovery rate.

What to Do:

Begin with slow exercises and steady movements to boost circulation.

For example, occasionally, you can take a slow walk around your room or house.

Switching Back to Normal 'Too Soon'

Many patients feel a bit better after a few days or weeks and believe they can return to their everyday life.

Fact: Knee surgery is a major invasive operation. Your body is already using a lot of energy for wound healing, and you may feel tired at times. Moreover, pushing your body before it's healed can slow down recovery or even reverse progress.

What to Do:

Follow your doctor's and physiotherapist's timeline (even if you feel better).

Avoid driving for at least 4–6 weeks (or until cleared).

Avoid lifting heavy objects, kneeling, or twisting suddenly.

Don't participate in any adventurous activity.

If your job requires physical activity, take adequate medical leave.

Ignoring Red Flags, a.k.a., the Signs of Complications

One of the biggest mistakes patients make is considering even the extreme symptoms as "just part of recovery."

Fact: While pain is the normal post-surgical effect of the knee replacement process, don't endure any physical extremes or changes. Ignoring them can lead to further complications or even delayed recovery.

What to Do:

If you are facing unusual symptoms like swelling, redness, severe pain, or fever, consult your surgeon or a medical expert.

Have regular follow-up appointments, even after recovery, to monitor your improvement.

Not Following a 'Nutritional Diet'

Many patients underestimate just how much their diet affects recovery. Some even switch back to their regular diet.

Fact: Good nutrition fuels quicker recovery and healing. The healthier you eat, the happier you feel, and the faster you heal.

What to Do:

Add more lean protein, fruits, and vegetables to your regular balanced diet.

Emphasize maintaining a healthy body weight to avoid unnecessary pressure on the knees.

Stay hydrated and energetic.

You can also add fat-free milk to your diet to support tissue repair.

Pro Tip: Beyond dietary sources, consider CoQ10 bone supplements and antioxidants to support bone density after knee replacement surgery.

Now that you know what not to do immediately after knee replacement surgery, let's see what you must do to speed up your recovery.

How to Speed Up Recovery Post-Knee Replacement Surgery

First, understand that you are not alone in this. Don't hesitate to seek help from your loved ones. You can also consult your surgeon, physiotherapist, and medical provider for healthcare advice or queries.

Here are the other things that you must follow immediately after knee replacement surgery:

Use pain-relieving techniques and exercises, like ice packs or heat packs.

For tasks such as driving or lifting heavy weights, you may ask your family and friends for help.

Follow the rehabilitation program and physical exercise plan set by your surgeon.

Enrich your diet with calcium, lean proteins, vitamins, and omega-3-rich foods to support tissue repair.

Minimize your alcohol consumption and smoking cycles.

While sitting, maintain the proper posture to minimize strain on your knee joint.

If possible, avoid stair use, particularly in the early stage of recovery.

The Final Takeaway

Knee replacement is a crucial procedure that can literally transform your life. But the real results can vary. For quicker recovery and enhanced mobility, prioritize your KNEE:

Keep moving (gentle physio)

Not ignoring red flags

Eat nutrient-rich food

Easy and slow adaptation to your normal routine

Your new knee deserves the right care. Ask for social and medical assistance wherever required and embark on this journey with grace!

Disclaimer: The material provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What can I never do after knee replacement surgery?

After knee replacement surgery, don't sit cross-legged or stand for long hours. This may cause swelling in your ankles, worsening your medical condition.

Q2. What is the biggest drawback of knee replacement surgery?

One of the greatest drawbacks is severe pain, particularly during the initial recovery cycle. However, if you follow the proper precautions and rehabilitation program, you can navigate the limitations of the knee replacement journey.

Q3. Can too much walking damage a knee replacement?

Yes. While slow movements and exercise can help me with knee replacement surgery, one should avoid intense workouts or activities.

Q4. How many days of rest are required after knee replacement?

In general, one must take precautions and proper rest for at least 3-4 months post-recovery. However, remember that the days of rest required after knee replacement surgery vary for every patient, depending on certain factors, such as age, gender, and demography.

Q5. What should not be eaten after knee replacement surgery?

Post-knee surgery, avoid high-fat foods, alcohol, processed sugar, and carbonated drinks. Moreover, if you are having blood-thinning applications, consider your vitamin K intake as well.