When can I drive, go back to work and pray normally after cartilage restoration?

Driving

You should not drive while using crutches or a locked brace, or while taking strong painkillers. If the left knee was operated on and your car is automatic, driving may be possible earlier than after right knee surgery. Most patients need to be able to make an emergency stop comfortably, which for many is around six to eight weeks for the right leg. Check your insurance terms as well.

Work

• Office and remote work: often two to four weeks, with the leg elevated and short walks to reduce swelling
• Jobs with standing and walking, such as teaching or retail: usually two to three months
• Manual, site or industrial work involving climbing, squatting or carrying: often four to six months or longer, sometimes with a phased return

A letter for your employer can be provided at your review.

Stairs, sleep and home

Go up stairs with the operated leg following the good one, and down with the operated leg first with crutches. Sleeping with a pillow under the calf, not behind the knee, helps the knee stay straight. A shower chair and removing loose rugs are worth arranging before surgery.

Prayer, kneeling and floor sitting

Deep bending and kneeling put direct pressure on many repairs, especially those under the kneecap or at the back of the thigh bone. In the early months many patients pray seated on a chair, and sit on a raised seat rather than the floor in the majlis. Bending is reintroduced gradually as the repair allows. For questions about how to adapt prayer, patients can discuss the ruling with a scholar.

Planning ahead

At Aman Hospital in Doha, Dr. Gelber explains the expected timeline for your specific procedure before surgery, so you can plan leave, transport and help at home.