Question 1

How long does physical therapy take after a total knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Structured physiotherapy usually runs about 6 to 10 weeks, with 2 to 3 sessions a week, so roughly 12 to 18 supervised sessions in total. Your daily home exercises matter even more than the session count. Full recovery can take up to 12 months.

Question 2

When can I start physical therapy after knee replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

Within 24 hours. Most patients stand and take their first steps with a physiotherapist on the day of surgery or the morning after, before they leave hospital. Early movement lowers clot risk and protects range of motion.

Question 3

What range of motion should I reach, and by when?

Accepted Answer

Aim for about 80 degrees of bend by week 2 and around 100 degrees by week 7. The outpatient goal is roughly 120 degrees of flexion and full extension to 0 degrees. You need about 90 degrees just to sit and stand comfortably.

Question 4

How many PT sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

Most people have 12 to 18 supervised sessions over 6 to 10 weeks. The bigger lever is the home programme you do 2 to 3 times a day between sessions.

Question 5

Can I do my knee-replacement physiotherapy at home in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A DHA-licensed home physiotherapist comes to you, which means no driving to a clinic on a walker. BestDOC home physiotherapy starts from AED 300 per 60-minute session, with the same physiotherapist on your case throughout.

Question 6

What happens if I skip physical therapy after a knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

The knee can stiffen and lose range of motion, sometimes permanently. Failing to reach about 90 degrees by six weeks can signal arthrofibrosis, scar tissue that may need further treatment. Consistent rehab is what makes the new joint work.

Question 7

When can I drive and return to work?

Accepted Answer

Driving usually returns at 4 to 6 weeks, once you are off narcotic painkillers and your surgeon clears you. Desk work is often possible at 4 to 6 weeks; physically demanding jobs can take up to 3 months.

Question 8

What warning signs mean I should call my surgeon?

Accepted Answer

Fever, spreading redness or discharge from the wound, or calf pain, swelling and warmth that could mean a blood clot. Also call if the knee will not reach 90 degrees by about six weeks. For a medical emergency in the UAE, call 998.