Seven weeks after a total knee replacement (TKR) marks a significant stage in the recovery process, where individuals typically experience notable improvements. While recovery timelines can vary, there are common expectations regarding physical capabilities and the return to daily routines. Understanding these general milestones helps patients navigate this period with a clearer perspective.
Typical Physical Milestones
At seven weeks post-TKR, patients generally achieve substantial improvements in knee range of motion and overall leg strength. Many individuals can bend their knee to at least 110-120 degrees of flexion. Full knee extension is also a common goal at this stage. These improvements are important for everyday movements.
Walking ability progresses significantly, with many patients walking without assistive devices. Stair negotiation becomes easier, often one step at a time. While considerable progress is made, some residual stiffness and weakness are common as healing continues.
Resuming Daily Activities
With improved physical capabilities, patients can begin to reintegrate many daily activities. Light household chores, such as cooking, cleaning, and laundry, become manageable. Short walks around the house or neighborhood are encouraged, gradually increasing in duration.
Driving may be resumed at this stage, particularly if the surgery was on the left leg and the vehicle has an automatic transmission; for right knee replacements, clearance from the surgeon is necessary, and patients should be off strong pain medications. Returning to work is possible for those with sedentary jobs, though physically demanding jobs require a longer recovery. Listening to the body and avoiding high-impact activities or twisting motions remains important to protect the healing joint.
Managing Lingering Symptoms
Even at seven weeks, it is common to experience some persistent symptoms as the knee continues to heal. Residual swelling, especially after increased activity or at the end of the day, can last for several months. Occasional pain or discomfort may still occur, particularly with certain movements or after exertion.
Numbness around the incision site is common and can sometimes persist, though it may lessen over time. The operated knee may also feel warmer to the touch, which can continue for several months. Applying ice and elevating the leg can help manage swelling and discomfort.
Continued Rehabilitation Focus
Physical therapy remains important for recovery at seven weeks, focusing on enhancing strength, range of motion, and function. Exercises at this stage target strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles, important for knee stability and movement. Balance exercises are introduced or intensified to improve stability and reduce fall risk.
Gait training continues, refining walking patterns to be more natural and efficient. The goal is to achieve 120 degrees of knee flexion and full extension to facilitate daily activities. Consistent adherence to the prescribed home exercise program is important for continued progress and long-term success.
Signs for Medical Concern
While many symptoms are normal during recovery, certain signs warrant immediate medical attention. Sudden, severe pain, especially after improvement, warrants attention. Signs of infection include increased redness, warmth, or pus draining from the incision site, along with a fever over 101.2°F (38.5°C).
Calf pain, swelling, tenderness, warmth, or redness in one leg can be symptoms of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and should be promptly evaluated. An inability to bear weight on the operated leg, or the knee giving way, also requires urgent medical review.