Locations:
Search IconSearch

Why Do I Still Have Pain Months After My Knee Replacement Surgery?

The short answer from an orthopedic surgeon

Woman with pain after knee replacement surgery

Q: I had knee replacement surgery four months ago. Why do I still have pain?

A: Recovery from surgery can take several months, so it’s not unusual to still have soreness in the knee that was replaced. As the intensity of rehabilitation exercises increases, more strain is put on the muscles and joints that have not been used in a period of time. Stick with the routine of exercises that were prescribed by a physical therapist. Though bending and stretching the knee may hurt at first, re-training the body to move normally will help with recovery in the long run.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

In addition, postoperative swelling is often a major source of pain for patients. Pain in the knee following the operation can last from six months to as long as one year, but don’t get discouraged. Once fully healed, knee replacement surgery will help provide pain relief and improved function long-term.

—Orthopedic surgeon Robert Molloy, MD

This article is adapted from Cleveland Clinic Arthritis Advisor.

Advertisement

Learn more about our editorial process.

Related Articles

Hand massaging foot with bunion
November 29, 2024/Orthopaedics
Can You Shrink Bunions Naturally?

Wearing shoe inserts, maintaining a healthy weight and using cold or heat therapy may give you relief

Healthcare provider in physical therapy room helping person walk with a walker
November 22, 2024/Orthopaedics
Here’s What Happens After a Knee Replacement

Full recovery takes a year or more, but you’ll likely be walking and driving within a few weeks if you follow your provider’s recovery plan

Bare feet of person standing on exercise mat, with one foot rolling on a roller
November 18, 2024/Orthopaedics
How To Stop Foot Pain From Standing All Day

Try stretching, massage, elevation and a supportive pair of shoes to help relieve foot aches and pains

Large hand with athlete-taped wrist and fingers gripping football on the field
October 16, 2024/Orthopaedics
Understanding the Concussion Protocol, From Little League to the NFL

Concussion protocol describes the steps needed to test for concussion and return to play — timelines vary

Couple raking leaves in their front yard by their house
October 16, 2024/Orthopaedics
Tips To Avoid Back Pain From Raking Leaves

Using proper form and the right equipment can help keep you injury-free while gathering up that colorful foliage

Person positioned on foam roller, stretching muscles
September 26, 2024/Exercise & Fitness
IT Band Stretches for Tight Muscles

Relieve a tight, achy and aggravated IT band, as well as hip and knee pain, with these at-home exercises

Person outside, grabbing shoulder
September 17, 2024/Orthopaedics
Tendonitis vs. Tendinosis: How Can I Tell the Difference?

Both are forms of tendinopathy, but one is more of an acute injury caused by inflammation, while the other is the result of degeneration over time

Person resting on couch with bandaged knee elevated on couch pillow
August 19, 2024/Orthopaedics
What’s the Best Way To Sleep After Meniscus Surgery?

You may have to keep your leg straight, but you can sleep in any position

Trending Topics

Person touching aching ear, with home remedies floating around
Home Remedies for an Ear Infection: What To Try and What To Avoid

Not all ear infections need antibiotics — cold and warm compresses and changing up your sleep position can help

Infographic of foods high in iron, including shrimp, oysters, peas, cream of wheat, prunes, eggs, broccoli, beef and chicken
52 Foods High In Iron

Pump up your iron intake with foods like tuna, tofu and turkey

Person squeezing half a lemon into a glass of water
Is Starting Your Day With Lemon Water Healthy?

A glass of lemon water in the morning can help with digestion and boost vitamin C levels, and may even help get you into a better routine

Ad