Recovery Timeline for Knee Arthroscopy with Chondroplasty
Recovery from knee arthroscopy with chondroplasty typically takes 2 to 6 weeks, with most patients unable to bear full weight for the first 2-7 days after surgery. 1
Immediate Post-Operative Period (First Week)
- Weight-bearing restrictions are standard for 2-7 days, during which most patients require crutches to avoid full weight on the operative leg 1
- Patients experience pain, swelling, and limited function during this initial recovery phase 1
- Physiotherapy and wound care should begin immediately to facilitate recovery 1
Early Recovery Phase (Weeks 1-4)
- By 2 weeks post-operatively, approximately 74% of patients still report knee-related activity restrictions, though this improves significantly from the 88% who had restrictions preoperatively 2
- 82% of patients return to light activities (walking, housework, yard work) within 1 week, increasing to 94% by 2 weeks and 100% by 4 weeks 2
- At 4 weeks, only 38% of patients continue to experience knee-related activity restrictions 2
- Strenuous activities should be avoided during this period, with gradual reintroduction as comfort permits from 2 to 6 weeks 1
Return to Work Timeline
- For sedentary/office work: 1-2 weeks is typically sufficient for return to work 1, 3
- For physically demanding jobs: at least 6 weeks is required before returning to full duties 1, 3
- The speed of recovery and specific job demands determine the exact timeline 1
Driving and Travel Restrictions
- Driving is limited for approximately 1-3 weeks after the procedure 1
- This restriction depends on which knee was operated on (right versus left) and individual recovery progress 1
Complete Recovery (Beyond 6 Weeks)
- By 20 weeks post-operatively, only 4% of patients report knee-related activity restrictions 2
- Activities causing symptoms should continue to be avoided even after the initial 2-6 week recovery period 1
Important Clinical Caveats
- The procedure itself typically takes 1 hour and requires general, regional, or local anesthesia 1
- Individualized follow-up and wound care are required throughout the recovery period 1
- Physiotherapy appointments are necessary to optimize recovery outcomes 1
- Premature return to physically demanding activities can lead to re-injury or incomplete healing 3
- The recovery timeline applies specifically to focal cartilage defects treated with chondroplasty; degenerative knee disease has different considerations and outcomes 1