The recovery time for a hip replacement and a knee replacement are quite different. Our experienced knee specialists in Dodgeville say knee replacements have a longer recovery time and a more intensive therapy because of the way the joint works. The soft tissues around the knee need more time and work to get back to full function. A hip joint relies more on muscle than other soft tissues, so while recovery can be faster, the muscle needs continued exercise so that it doesn’t become weak. When committed to therapy and home exercises, most patients feel about 85% recovered within 6 weeks after surgery.