Recovering After Knee or Hip Replacement: A Week-by-Week Physiotherapy Guide

A knee or hip replacement can dramatically improve your quality of life, reducing pain and restoring mobility. However, surgery is only the first step. Successful recovery depends on following a structured rehabilitation programme with knee replacement physiotherapy or hip replacement rehabilitation.

8/23/20262 min read

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Recovering After Knee or Hip Replacement: A Week-by-Week Physiotherapy Guide

A knee or hip replacement can dramatically improve your quality of life, reducing pain and restoring mobility. However, surgery is only the first step. Successful recovery depends on following a structured rehabilitation programme with knee replacement physiotherapy or hip replacement rehabilitation.

At Physio Network, we provide expert home physiotherapy across Hertfordshire, helping patients recover safely and confidently in the comfort of their own homes.

Week 1: Managing Pain and Starting to Move

The first week focuses on controlling pain and swelling while encouraging gentle movement.

Your physiotherapist will help you:

Walk safely using a walking aid.
Improve your range of movement.
Perform gentle strengthening exercises.
Learn safe techniques for getting in and out of bed and chairs.

Short walks around your home are encouraged to improve circulation and reduce the risk of complications.

Weeks 2–4: Building Strength and Confidence

As pain and swelling reduce, knee replacement physiotherapy or hip replacement rehabilitation becomes more focused on improving mobility and independence.

Your programme may include:

Knee bending and straightening exercises.
Hip strengthening exercises.
Sit-to-stand practice.
Balance training.
Walking longer distances.

Your physiotherapist will monitor your progress and adjust exercises as your strength improves.

Weeks 4–8: Returning to Everyday Activities

Most patients begin to feel more confident during this stage. The focus shifts towards returning to normal daily activities.

Treatment may include:

Stair climbing practice.
Improving walking without aids (when appropriate).
Strengthening the muscles around the hip or knee.
Functional exercises for household activities.

Consistency with your home exercise programme is essential for the best results.

Weeks 8–12: Regaining Independence

By this stage, many patients experience significant improvements in pain and mobility.

Your physiotherapist will continue to work on:

Increasing strength.
Improving balance.
Enhancing endurance.
Restoring confidence with everyday movements.

Recovery varies between individuals, and some patients may continue improving for up to a year after surgery.

Tips for a Successful Recovery

Complete your exercises every day.
Stay active without overdoing it.
Manage swelling by elevating your leg when resting.
Follow your surgeon's advice regarding weight-bearing.
Attend all physiotherapy appointments.

How Home Physiotherapy Can Help

Travelling after surgery can be uncomfortable. Receiving knee replacement physiotherapy or hip replacement rehabilitation at home allows your physiotherapist to assess your mobility in your own environment, including stairs, furniture, and walking surfaces.

At Physio Network, we provide personalised home rehabilitation across Hertfordshire, helping you recover safely, regain independence, and return to the activities you enjoy.

Book your home physiotherapy assessment today and let our experienced team support your recovery every step of the way.