Guide
Physiotherapy after a hip or knee replacement, at home
The exercises after a hip or knee replacement matter: the NHS says doing them early helps long-term strength and movement. Full recovery usually takes several months. If walking, stairs or getting out of a chair are not getting easier, or the exercises have stopped, physiotherapy at home can get recovery moving again.
What recovery usually looks like
- The first weeks
- Crutches or a walking frame at first, then a stick as confidence grows.
- Around six weeks
- Many people can try walking without an aid after a knee replacement. Driving usually has to wait at least six weeks.
- Several months
- Full recovery often takes several months, and longer for some people, depending on age and general health.
Signs recovery may be stalling
- Still relying on a frame or stick when they expected to be off it
- Stairs, chairs or getting into the car no easier than a few weeks ago
- The exercises have stopped, often because of pain or worry
- Going out less than before the operation
- A new fall, or a near miss
When to get medical advice
- Call 999
- If they are short of breath or have chest pain.
- Call NHS 111 or the hospital
- If the leg becomes hot, red, more swollen or more painful, the wound leaks, or they have a high temperature.
How we can help
We see them at home, test strength, movement and walking, and look at the stairs, chairs, bathroom and car. The plan sets out what to work on and in what order. Where hands-on physiotherapy helps, we provide it at home, alongside anything the hospital has arranged.
The assessment is £140, and it starts with a free consultation call.