Knee Replacement Stiffness: Causes, Fixes, and What to Expect

When your knee replacement stiffness, the persistent tightness or reduced range of motion after knee replacement surgery. It’s not just discomfort—it’s a sign your joint isn’t moving the way it should. Many people expect pain to fade after surgery, but stiffness? That sticks around longer than most plan for. It’s not rare. About 1 in 5 patients still struggle with stiffness six months after surgery. And if you’re one of them, you’re not broken. You just need the right approach.

This isn’t about laziness or bad luck. It’s biology. Scar tissue forms. Muscles tighten. Nerves get sensitive. And if you don’t move the knee early and often, it starts to lock up. physical therapy, a structured program to restore movement and strength after surgery. It’s not optional—it’s the backbone of recovery. Skipping sessions or doing them half-heartedly is the #1 reason stiffness lingers. range of motion, how far your knee can bend and straighten. Without at least 110 degrees of bend, daily tasks like sitting in a chair or climbing stairs become painful struggles. Surgeons don’t just replace the joint—they count on your muscles and movement to make it work.

Stiffness doesn’t always mean something went wrong. Sometimes, it’s just slow progress. But it can also signal deeper issues—like infection, improper implant positioning, or untreated arthritis in other parts of the knee. That’s why tracking your progress matters. If you’re not gaining at least 5–10 degrees of motion per week in the first month, it’s time to push harder or ask for help.

What works? Daily stretching. Heat before exercise. Cold after. Walking every day, even if it’s just around the house. Using a stationary bike with low resistance. And yes—pushing through the discomfort, carefully. Pain during rehab is normal. Pain that stops you from moving? That’s a red flag.

Some people think rest will fix it. It won’t. Movement is the medicine. Others wait months to start therapy. That’s too late. The first six weeks are critical. After that, stiffness gets harder to reverse. And if you’re still stiff after three months, don’t wait for it to get better on its own. Talk to your doctor. Ask about manipulation under anesthesia. It’s not scary. It’s a quick procedure that can reset your joint.

You’re not alone in this. Thousands of people face knee replacement stiffness every year. Some bounce back fast. Others fight for every degree of motion. The difference? Consistency. The right guidance. And not giving up when it gets tough. Below, you’ll find real stories, expert tips, and clear steps from people who’ve walked this path. No fluff. Just what actually helps.