While knee replacement surgery is fairly common, it is a procedure that often worries patients due to the recovery time involved. After all, a person can't walk properly if their knees aren't in working order. Learn what you can expect after your knee replacement surgery so you can go into the procedure with peace of mind.

Length of Your Recovery

The amount of time it will take for you to recover completely from your knee replacement surgery depends on the type of surgery you're having. If you're having a traditional knee replacement surgery, expect your recovery time to take approximately 12 weeks total — with recovery time and rehab. If you have minimally invasive knee replacement surgery, your orthopedic surgeon will insert your knee implants without damage to your quadricep muscle. Because of this, your recovery time will be much shorter — many patients are able to walk with a cane just a couple of weeks after the surgery.

Walking

The amount of time you actually spend off your feet after surgery may surprise you. Expect to be standing up with help from the hospital staff within 12 to 24 hours after your surgery is complete. This is perfectly normal. In fact, movement if very important after surgery. If you don't use your knee joint, it can become extremely stiff during the healing process. Additionally, while you're in the hospital, you should expect to do regular exercises with the help of a physical therapist to ensure the recovery process gets off to a good start. Before you're discharged from the hospital, you'll be able to bend your leg at a full 90-degree angle, walk with the help of a walker, bathe, and dress.

Prepare Your Home

If you aren't going to a nursing home while you recover, you need to make sure your home is prepared for your recovery before your surgery.

• Rearrange your furniture so that it's easy for you to get around with the help of a walker.
• Move any cords or rugs in your walking path so that you don't trip and fall.
• Ensure you have a comfortable place to sit that is firm enough for you to get up easily, such as a recliner that you don't sink into when you sit down.

If you remain patient and follow the recovery instructions from your orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist, recovering from your knee replacement surgery shouldn't be too difficult. If you have any questions at all about the process, check out sites like http://www.jpspottdo.com and take the time to talk to your orthopedic surgeon before your surgery.