When Is the Worst Pain After Partial Knee Replacement?
Pain typically peaks on days 2–4, then improves steadily over the following two weeks.
Most patients describe day-of-surgery as surprisingly comfortable thanks to local anaesthetic injected into the joint during surgery and strong pain control while in hospital. Pain typically peaks between days 2 and 4 as that local block wears off and swelling reaches its maximum.
From day 4 onward, pain improves steadily. By two weeks most patients are off opioid pain medication entirely and managing with paracetamol and an anti-inflammatory. Nighttime is often the most uncomfortable period for the first 10 days — elevation, ice and a pillow between the knees help significantly.
If pain is sharply worsening rather than gradually settling, or if the knee becomes hot, very red or much more swollen, contact the rooms — these are not normal and need to be assessed.
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