Driving After Joint Replacement
Driving after joint replacement surgery requires careful consideration and planning to ensure safety and comfort. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• General Recommendations

I generally suggest waiting at least six weeks before driving after hip or knee replacement surgery. This is to avoid being impaired by pain, medication, or reduced function. It’s important to test your ability to brake in an empty parking lot before driving.  

• Specific Tips for Knee Replacement

If you had surgery on your left knee, you might be able to drive after 2-3 weeks, as the left leg is used less while driving. However, if you had surgery on your right knee, it might take around 5-6 weeks before you can drive safely. Always consider getting medical clearance from your doctor before attempting to drive.

• Car Transfers

Getting in and out of a car right after joint replacement surgery can be challenging. It’s recommended to choose suitable vehicles like SUVs, minivans, or full-size sedans over smaller cars. Preparing the passenger seat by moving it back and reclining it can facilitate easier entry. Using a walker and positioning the operated leg carefully can help in making the transfer smoother.

• Legal and Moral Considerations

Driving while recovering from surgery can have legal and moral consequences if you get into an accident. It’s crucial to ensure that you are not impaired by medication and that your reaction time is not reduced.  Please ensure that you are able to get in and out of the car without any walking aids and that your braking ability is not compromised.

• Testing Your Ability

Before resuming normal driving, it’s advisable to test your ability to drive safely in an empty parking lot. This includes checking if you can walk steadily with minimal use of a cane and ensuring that you haven’t taken narcotic pain medicine within four to six hours before driving.

Remember, your recovery and readiness to drive will depend on various factors, including your strength, mobility, and individual healing rate. Always prioritize safety and consult with your healthcare provider at Lancashire Hip and Knee Clinic for personalized advice. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How soon after knee replacement surgery can you drive?

Most patients can resume driving 4–6 weeks after surgery, provided they regain strength, mobility, and can stop the car safely during an emergency.

2. Can I legally drive after knee replacement?

You can legally drive once you’re off pain medications, have adequate leg control, and your doctor clears you—usually around 6 weeks post-surgery.

3. Why do you have to wait 6 weeks after surgery to drive?

You need time to regain muscle control, reflexes, and flexibility to operate a vehicle safely and respond quickly in case of emergencies.

4. What is the maximum bend after knee replacement?

Most people achieve 120°–130° of knee bend after full recovery, enough for everyday activities like sitting, climbing stairs, or getting in a car.

5. How long after surgery can I drive?

Driving is typically safe 4–6 weeks after surgery, depending on which knee was replaced, your recovery progress, and your surgeon’s advice.