The early weeks decide the outcome
After a knee replacement, the priorities are controlling swelling, getting the knee to straighten fully and bend progressively, and walking safely with the prescribed aid. Scar tissue forms fast, so gentle, regular movement in the first weeks — guided by the physiotherapist and the surgeon's protocol — is what protects the range of motion long-term.
Consistency beats intensity
The home exercises matter more than the occasional hard session. Doing the prescribed movements little and often, managing pain so you can actually move, and progressing at the physiotherapist's pace gives a better result than pushing too hard and flaring the joint. A physio adjusts the plan to how the knee is actually responding.
Know the surgeon's limits
Every surgeon sets precautions — how much weight to bear, what movements to avoid, and the follow-up schedule. A good home physiotherapist works strictly within them and escalates anything off-plan (a hot swollen calf, a wound problem, a fever) rather than pushing through it.