As the holiday season approaches, many look forward to Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas celebrations, and New Year gatherings with friends and family. For those living with severe knee arthritis, these moments can be overshadowed by stiffness, pain, and limited mobility. Let’s consider how planning your knee replacement surgery with the holidays in mind can help you stay active and fully present during these special occasions.
Why Timing Matters for Knee Replacement
Knee replacement is a proven solution for restoring mobility when nonsurgical treatments no longer provide relief. Timing the surgery thoughtfully allows you to recover enough to enjoy standing, walking, and participating in family traditions. For patients considering surgery in the fall, scheduling now can mean significant progress by the heart of the holiday season.
Recovery Timeline: What to Expect
The first weeks after surgery focus on rest, swelling control, and guided exercises to restore motion. By six to eight weeks, many patients walk with greater comfort and reduced dependence on support. While full recovery continues into the new year, scheduling in October or November provides a strong chance of being mobile and engaged for December festivities. While many patients like to travel during the holiday season, Dr. Ehmke doesn't recommend driving more than 2-3 hours or flying until 6 weeks after surgery. Getting through an airport or being in a car that long can be difficult, especially in the first few weeks. Dr. Ehmke also prefers to have his patients nearby in case an issue arises, and he would like them to come into the office for evaluation.
Benefits of Scheduling in Advance
Planning surgery ahead of the holidays has practical benefits. Pre-surgery strengthening exercises help improve outcomes, while arranging support at home makes recovery smoother. By setting your procedure date now, you can align your rehabilitation milestones with family gatherings and travel plans, giving you more confidence as celebrations approach.
Choosing the Right Time for You
The best timing depends on your overall health, lifestyle, and priorities. Many patients choose a fall surgery to regain strength before Thanksgiving and Christmas. Others may wait until early January, when schedules slow down and recovery can be prioritized. An orthopedic specialist can help you decide which option best supports your holiday goals and long-term mobility. Some patients prefer to schedule their surgery around a holiday, as they know they will have family nearby to help and comfort them. Christmas is especially popular for this.
How Specialists Guide Recovery
An orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee and hip replacement provides personalized care, from preoperative planning to rehabilitation strategies. Working closely with your surgeon ensures your recovery aligns with your desired activity level for the holiday season and beyond. This approach supports safe healing and lasting results.
Don’t let knee arthritis keep you sidelined during family traditions. With thoughtful timing and the right care, knee replacement can help you enjoy the holidays standing tall and moving with confidence. If persistent knee pain is affecting your daily life, consult our office this fall to discuss whether now is the right time for surgery.
AUTHOR: Dr. Andrew Ehmke is a board-certified and fellowship-trained joint replacement surgeon specializing in robotic-assisted and minimally invasive hip and knee replacement in Chicagoland and NW Indiana.
