How long does it take to walk normally after total knee replacement? Phases, timelines, tips
Wondering when you'll walk normally after total knee replacement? Learn typical timelines, recovery tips, and what can affect your progress.
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If you’ve lived with knee pain, undergoing knee replacement surgery can feel like a major turning point — offering easier movement and a return to the activities you enjoy. Many people look forward to walking comfortably and confidently again.
So, when can you start walking after knee replacement surgery? The journey to recovery begins almost immediately after knee surgery.
“Many patients are surprised at how soon we help them get moving. They often take their first steps with a physical therapist on the day of surgery,” says Mary Kimbrough, PT, DPT, a physical therapist at Hinge Health.
Regaining a normal walking pattern is a gradual process, with distinct phases of healing and strengthening along the way. For many people, it takes about six to 12 weeks to walk normally and independently, but timelines can vary depending on factors like age, overall health, and activity level before surgery.
Read on to learn more about how long it takes to walk normally after a knee replacement, and get tips and sample knee replacement recovery exercises from Hinge Health physical therapists to help you through your recovery.
Reviewed by our clinical and medical experts
Christynne Helfrich, PT, DPT
Mary Kimbrough, PT, DPT
What is knee replacement surgery?
A knee replacement, or knee arthroplasty, is a surgery that replaces parts of your knee with artificial components. The knee joint is made up of the thigh bone (femur), shin bone (tibia), and kneecap (patella), all cushioned by smooth cartilage. When the cartilage changes and doesn’t provide enough cushioning, your knee can feel painful or stiff
During knee replacement surgery, the damaged cartilage and a small amount of bone are removed from the joint. The ends of the bones are then capped with metal and plastic parts that mimic the smooth surface of a natural knee, allowing for easier and more comfortable movement.
Types of knee replacement
There are three main types of knee replacement surgery:
Total knee replacement. The surgeon carefully reshapes the ends of the bones in your knee and fits them with custom implants that create a new, smooth joint surface. The artificial pieces mimic the natural alignment and movement of a healthy knee.
Partial knee replacement. Only one or two parts of the knee joint are replaced, and the rest of the knee is left untouched. Partial replacements are often performed in younger adults who have more limited damage, often due to injury or trauma.
Revision knee replacement. This is a second surgery done to replace or repair a previous knee replacement implant. Reasons for a revision can include the implant wearing out over time, loosening, infection, or damage from a fall or injury. Most knee replacements last 15 to 20 years — or even longer in some cases. Because implants have a limited lifespan and revision procedures are more complex and generally require a longer recovery, some people try to delay their first knee replacement as long as is reasonable, especially if they are younger, to help avoid needing a revision.
How long does it take to walk normally after knee replacement?
Many people are surprised to find they’re encouraged to take a few steps — usually with help from a physical therapist — on the very day of their knee replacement surgery. “It’s really important to walk soon after your knee surgery, because you want to get blood circulating into your new joint. The more you use your new knee, the better you’ll recover,” says Dr. Kimbrough.
Recovery from knee replacement surgery is a gradual process, and the pace can vary quite a bit. During the first few weeks, most people use assistive devices, such as a walker, crutches, or a cane, for support. Your physical therapist will guide you on how to use these assistive devices and when you’re ready to progress to walking without them. You will also learn what movements and positions you may need to change or temporarily avoid in the early stages of recovery to protect your healing knee.
Attending all your follow-up appointments with your surgeon and your physical therapist is important for monitoring your healing, addressing any issues, and adjusting your recovery plan as needed.
Walking without an assistive device after knee surgery
Between weeks four and six, many people are ready to walk indoors for several minutes at a time without a walker or cane. Physical therapists often focus on gait training at this stage to help you improve your walking pattern. “As your knee grows stronger, you’ll be able to walk for even longer,” notes Dr. Kimbrough.
While many people begin to walk without an assistive device within six to 12 weeks after surgery, it’s important to remember that everyone’s recovery timeline is unique. Factors like age, overall health, prior activity level, and the complexity of your surgery can impact how quickly you regain a normal walking pattern after knee surgery. Some people feel ready to walk independently sooner, while others may take a bit longer — and that’s perfectly okay.
By three to six months, many people find they can walk farther and faster than they could before their knee surgery, and are able to manage activities like walking up stairs and enjoying longer strolls. “The goal is always to help you return to walking comfortably and confidently — at your own pace,” says Dr. Kimbrough. While full recovery can take up to a year, studies show that most people end up walking better than they did prior to knee replacement.
How long does it take to recover from a knee replacement?
Knee replacement recovery typically happens in three main phases:
Initial healing phase (first 6 weeks): During this time, your physical therapist will help you manage swelling and start improving your knee’s range of motion. This sets the stage for regaining normal walking after knee surgery.
Intermediate recovery (3 to 6 months): The focus shifts to restoring your knee’s full range of motion and building strength. “Your physical therapist will want to make sure that you can fully extend and straighten your knee, which is key to walking normally and doing all your daily activities,” says Dr. Kimbrough.
Long-term recovery (6 months and beyond): Many people finish formal physical therapy by around six months, but continuing your exercises at home is strongly encouraged. Ongoing exercises help keep your knee strong and flexible, support your mobility, and help you get the best long-term results from your surgery. Staying active is important, too. Walking is an excellent, safe choice that won’t harm your knee replacement, no matter how much you do. Other activities — like swimming, cycling, running, or many sports — can also be great options, but it’s wise to work with your surgeon to decide what types of activities are best for you.
Recovery from knee replacement varies from person to person and can be influenced by many factors. Your age, overall health, and pre-surgery activity level can all affect how quickly you heal — those who were more active or had stronger muscles before surgery may progress a bit faster. The complexity of your surgery, including whether it was a first-time or revision procedure, also plays a role. Challenges like stiffness, swelling, or difficulty regaining strength can sometimes arise as well. The most important thing is to listen to your body, follow your care team’s advice, and remember that everyone’s recovery timeline is unique.
Exercises to help with walking
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- Heel slide with towel
- Quad set
- Short arc quad stretch
The above exercises are recommended by Hinge Health physical therapists to support your healing and recovery after knee replacement surgery. They’re commonly used after knee replacement, but everyone’s surgery and recovery needs are different — always follow guidance from your own physical therapist and surgical team. Physical therapy is a key part of healing and returning to normal life. Gentle movement right after surgery helps your body reduce swelling, prevent complications, and get blood flowing to your new joint. “Every time you squeeze your muscles, you push fluid out of the knee and encourage better circulation, which helps you return to your normal walking pattern sooner” explains Dr. Kimbrough.
The information contained in these videos is intended to be used for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or treatment for any specific condition. Hinge Health is not your healthcare provider and is not responsible for any injury sustained or exacerbated by your use of or participation in these exercises. Please consult with your healthcare provider with any questions you may have about your medical condition or treatment.
Physical therapy (PT) is for more than just recovering from surgery or injury. It’s one of the top treatments for joint and muscle pain. It helps build strength, improve mobility, and reduce pain. And it doesn't always need to be in person.
Hinge Health members can conveniently access customized plans or chat with their care team at home or on the go — and experience an average 68% reduction in pain* within the first 12 weeks of their program. Learn more*.
Physical therapy after knee replacement
Physical therapy after knee replacement surgery focuses on helping you move confidently and safely as you return to your daily life. Functional exercises are at the core of your recovery — they target the strength, flexibility, and balance needed for walking, climbing stairs, and getting in and out of chairs or a bed.
Your recovery plan may include:
Targeted exercises. Targeted exercises — like quad sets or straight leg raises — help rebuild muscle strength around the knee and restore knee joint mobility. Regular practice makes it easier to regain a natural walking pattern after knee replacement surgery and do everyday activities. You can do exercise therapy at home or work with a physical therapist who can guide you through movements tailored to your needs. You can see a physical therapist in person or use a program like Hinge Health, where you may access a PT via telehealth/video visit.
Balance training. Specific activities challenge and improve your stability, which is essential for steady walking and reducing your risk of falls. Better balance makes you more confident on your feet, both inside and outside your home.
Gait training. This involves working with your physical therapist to address any changes in how you walk that may have developed before or after surgery. Gait training helps you relearn how to move smoothly and efficiently, so walking feels natural.
Functional movements. Your therapist will guide you through exercises that mimic real-life activities, such as getting up from a chair, sitting down, or safely navigating stairs. Practicing these movements helps you regain independence in your everyday routines.
Movement is medicine after knee replacement. Staying consistent with your physical therapy program, making functional movements part of your daily routine, and checking in with your care team about new activities will help you build lasting confidence and independence.
Can too much walking damage a knee replacement?
Low-impact activities like walking, biking, or swimming are generally encouraged after a knee replacement. Staying active helps strengthen your muscles, increases flexibility, and supports the long-term health of your new knee and your overall well-being. “The key is to listen to your body: mild discomfort is usually normal as you rebuild strength, but you should avoid or adjust activities that lead to pain or increased swelling,” Dr. Kimbrough says. If you're unsure about what's right for you, your physical therapist or care team can help you find the right balance for your needs.
Should I avoid kneeling after a knee replacement?
Everyone’s experience with kneeling after a knee replacement is a little different. For some, kneeling can feel uncomfortable, while others can do it without pain. “Using a soft mat or cushion under your knee can make kneeling gentler, but it’s also okay to swap kneeling moves for standing or seated alternatives if that feels better for you,” Dr. Kimbrough says. Your physical therapist can help you find comfortable options that fit your needs and goals.
PT tip: Squeeze your thigh
As soon as you’re out of the recovery room after knee replacement surgery, begin squeezing the muscles in the front of your thigh every hour for five to 10 seconds. “This exercise activates your quadriceps muscle,” explains Dr. Kimbrough. “The more consistently you do it, the sooner you’ll be on your way to walking normally after a knee replacement.”
How Hinge Health can help you
If you have joint or muscle pain that makes it hard to move, you can get the relief you’ve been looking for with Hinge Health’s online exercise therapy program.
The best part: You don’t have to leave your home because our program is digital. That means you can easily get the care you need through our app when and where it works for you.
Through our program, you’ll have access to therapeutic exercises and stretches for your condition. Additionally, you’ll have a personal care team to guide, support, and tailor our program to you.
See if you qualify for Hinge Health and confirm free coverage through your employer or benefit plan here.
This article and its contents are provided for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or professional services specific to you or your medical condition.
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References
Do Weon Lee, Han, H.-S., Myung Chul Lee, & Du Hyun Ro. (2024). Prediction of postoperative gait speed change after bilateral primary total knee arthroplasty in female patients using a machine learning algorithm. Orthopaedics & Traumatology: Surgery & Research, 110(7), 103842–103842. doi:10.1016/j.otsr.2024.103842
Sheth, N. P. (2024, February). Total Knee Replacement - OrthoInfo - AAOS. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Retrieved from https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/total-knee-replacement/
Sheth, N. P. (2025, February). Revision Total Knee Replacement - OrthoInfo - AAOS. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Retrieved from https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/revision-total-knee-replacement/
Ittai Shichman, Askew, N., Habibi, A., L. Nherera, Macaulay, W., Seyler, T. M., & Schwarzkopf, R. (2023). Projections and Epidemiology of Revision Hip and Knee Arthroplasty in the United States to 2040-2060. Arthroplasty Today, 21(101152), 101152–101152. doi:10.1016/j.artd.2023.101152
Martin, G. M. (2024, August 16). Patient education: Total knee replacement (Beyond the Basics). UpToDate. Retrieved from https://www.uptodate.com/contents/total-knee-replacement-beyond-the-basics#H9