Approximately 581,000 knee replacement procedures are performed each year in the United States, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Knee replacement surgery can correct leg deformity and help people move around and function without leg pain. Those who undergo this procedure are often anxious to resume their regular activities, such as driving, but often must wait for a recovery period to pass before this is recommended. The success of the surgery depends in part on how well an individuals follows their surgeon's aftercare instructions, so it is important not to drive or perform other tasks until given permission to do so.
Step 1
Ask a doctor when it is appropriate to drive without posing further harm to your knee. Your doctor's recommendation may vary depending upon the specific details of your surgery, but most individuals can resume driving approximately four to six weeks after surgery, according to the American Academy of Orthapaedic Surgeons.
Step 2
Sit in your car with your knee bent and check your comfort level. You should only attempt to drive if sitting in this position is comfortable, according to the information website MayoClinic.com.
Step 3
Start driving small distances at first. For example, drive around the neighborhood or up to the corner store. Be mindful of your muscle control and reaction time.
Step 4
Adjust the distance you drive as appropriate. If driving is uncomfortable or you are not able to drive as well as you did before your knee replacement surgery, wait another week or two before attempting to drive again. If driving goes well, gradually increase the distance you drive until you resume normal driving activity.
Tips and Warnings
- Cars with automatic transmissions may be easier to drive after knee replacement surgery than those with a manual transmission.
- Doctors can only tell you when it is safe to drive without posing harm to your knee, but are not legally able to tell you when it is safe for you to drive to prevent an accident, points out the website of the Hip and Knee Institute of Los Angeles. Use your own judgment on determining whether it is safe for you to drive, and feel free to take more than the recommended four to six weeks if you feel it is necessary. Use caution when taking pain medications, as some may cause drowsiness or interfere with your reaction time and ability to drive safely.
