Life After Knee Arthroscopy: What to Expect During Recovery

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive "keyhole" procedure. Because the incisions are small, recovery is usually faster and less painful than open surgery. Here is a general idea of what to expect – your own plan will be personalised by your surgeon.

The first few days

• Most patients start walking with support the same or next day
• Keep the leg elevated and use ice packs to control swelling
• Take medicines as prescribed and keep the dressing clean and dry

The first few weeks

Physiotherapy begins early to regain movement and muscle strength. After a simple meniscus trim, most people return to routine work quickly. After ligament reconstruction or meniscus repair, the knee is protected for longer and rehab progresses in stages.

Returning to sport

Return to running and sports depends on the procedure performed and on meeting strength and balance milestones – not just on the number of weeks.

When to call your doctor

• Increasing pain, redness or discharge from the wound
• Fever
• Calf pain or swelling

Following your rehab plan closely is the single most important factor for a great result. Our clinic is open 24 hours if you have any concern during recovery.