After knee replacement surgery, many patients are eager to know when they can return to work and resume normal activities. While the desire for speedy recovery among patients is almost universal, the value of recovery time itself is less understood and appreciated. If recovery is uncomplicated for a patient, patients may return at six weeks to the office or similar light work. However, returning to work should be phased with three half-days in the first week, two full days in the second week, five half-days in the third week, and week four full-time.