How long will it take to recover? 

Although you will be able to walk on crutches soon after surgery, you will need help for several weeks with everyday activities, such as household chores, shopping and bathing.

A physiotherapist will be available to help you get used to the walking aids and teach you exercises to strengthen your knee.

An occupational therapist may be available to advise on home adjustments, such as bath or shower handrails and a raised toilet seat.

As with all major surgery, it takes time to recover fully. Within about three months, however, you should be back to normal.

Driving may be possible within four to six weeks and, depending on how physically demanding your job is, you will probably be able to return to work within six weeks.

You will need to attend an outpatient appointment about six weeks after the operation to check on your progress.

 
 
 

All Dr Foster health content is provided for general information only and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional, or relied upon as a source of comprehensive practitioner material.

All Dr Foster health content has been peer reviewed by GPs and is updated anually when necessary.

Dr Foster is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made or treatment given by a user based on the content of the supplied health content. Dr Foster is not liable for the contents of any external internet sites listed, nor does it endorse any commercial product or service mentioned or advised on any of the sites.

Always consult your own GP if you are concerned about your health.