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Knee replacement

Hydrotherapy After Knee Replacement: Your Path to Recovery- The Importance of Early Focus

Knee replacement is a major operation that demands patient commitment during the early weeks of recovery.

Most surgeons recommend clearing your schedule for the first eight weeks to focus entirely on rehabilitation.

During this period, managing swelling and maintaining joint mobility are critical for achieving the best results.

Before surgery, many patients experience limited knee mobility and difficulty fully straightening the knee, often due to muscle shortening.

In surgery, the knee is restored to full extension, but maintaining this range post-operatively requires flexibility in the hamstrings and early activation of the quadriceps.

Patients who start rehab early, ideally within two weeks after surgery, tend to achieve the best outcomes.

Why Hydrotherapy is Ideal for Knee Replacement Recovery

Improved Swelling Management

The hydrostatic pressure of the water helps reduce swelling and improve circulation, which are critical for post-operative recovery.

Early Mobility and Range of Motion

In the pool, you can work on regaining your range of motion and flexibility without the added strain of gravity. Exercises in water allow for gentle, progressive loading that supports healing.

Quadriceps Activation

Early quadriceps activation is essential for recovery, and hydrotherapy enables targeted strengthening while reducing discomfort and joint irritation.

Reduced Joint Stress

Water’s buoyancy supports your body weight, reducing stress on your knee joint and allowing you to perform exercises with less pain and greater ease.

Full-Body Conditioning

In addition to knee-focused exercises, hydrotherapy offers opportunities to maintain cardiovascular fitness and overall strength, promoting a balanced recovery.

Why Choose Hydrotherapy for Your Recovery?

Specialised Expertise:

Our team has extensive experience with knee replacement patients and works closely with leading consultants to tailor rehabilitation programs to your needs.

Proven Results:

Patients who engage in hydrotherapy early consistently achieve better range of motion, reduced pain, and improved strength.

State-of-the-Art Facilities:

Our hydrotherapy pool is designed to optimise your recovery, providing the perfect environment for safe and effective rehabilitation.

After my first knee replacement in September 2024, I was struggling and as NHS physio was not starting till March 2025, I knew I had to do something to help myself. Absolutely 5*!

The staff are amazing, friendly and know their stuff. I knew I was in good hands. My progression has been amazing with the help of Matt. I would recommend this place to anyone having issues. Really helps. And when my next knee gets done I will be back 100%."

Patient following total knee replacement

Here is a short video clip of a patient performing a selection of her exercises at Aqua-Physio 5 weeks following a left total knee replacement

FAQs about Knee replacement

: Most patients can begin hydrotherapy once their wound has fully healed - usually around 2–3 weeks post-surgery. Your physiotherapist or surgeon will confirm when it’s safe to enter the pool.
: Hydrotherapy helps you move earlier and more comfortably. The warm water reduces joint stiffness, supports your body weight, and allows for safe, low-impact movement that improves flexibility, strength, and confidence when walking.
: Yes. Once the incision is healed, hydrotherapy is very safe. The buoyancy of the water reduces stress on the new joint, while the resistance helps gently rebuild muscle without overloading the knee.
: Your first session will probably focus on gentle walking, knee bending and straightening exercises in the warm water. This will help with regaining full movement and confidence. Sessions are always tailored to your stage of recovery.
: Typically, 1-2 sessions per week are recommended for the first few weeks, depending on your recovery pace. Your physiotherapist will guide you on frequency and when to transition to more land-based exercises.
: No - hydrotherapy pools are shallow (around chest depth), and sessions are fully supervised by trained physiotherapists. You’ll always have support if needed.
: Yes - the hydrostatic pressure of the water helps reduce swelling, and the warmth promotes circulation and relaxation. Many patients notice immediate improvements in stiffness and pain after their sessions.
: Most people benefit from 4-6 weeks of hydrotherapy as part of their rehabilitation program. After that, you’ll progress to more land-based exercises, but some continue with pool sessions for fitness and joint maintenance.

Take Control of Your Recovery

Whether you’ve had a partial, full, or bilateral knee replacement, early intervention is key to achieving the best outcomes. Hydrotherapy can help you regain strength, mobility, and confidence while ensuring a smooth and efficient recovery process. Contact us today to start your journey back to full function.

Book your consultation today

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