Osteotomy
Realign your stride, relieve your pain: Osteotomy for lasting knee correction.
Last Updated: July 3, 2026
Surgery Type
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Implant Type
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What happens in this surgery?
- Involves cutting and reshaping the upper part of the shin bone (tibia).
- Aims to shift weight from the inner (medial) compartment of the knee to the outer (lateral) compartment.
- Often used when knock knees are primarily due to an issue in the tibia.
- Helps reduce pain and slow the progression of arthritis in the affected compartment.
Ready to take the next step?
Connect with a specialist to see if Osteotomy is right for you.
Post Surgery Recovery
What to expect after your procedure
After an osteotomy, patients typically spend 1-3 nights in the hospital for pain management and initial rehabilitation. Pain will be managed with medication, and the leg will likely be in a brace or cast. Weight-bearing restrictions are common, often requiring crutches or a walker for several weeks or months, depending on the specific procedure and surgeon's protocol. Physical therapy begins soon after surgery to restore range of motion, strengthen muscles, and gradually progress to full weight-bearing. The initial healing phase, where the bone begins to knit, usually takes 6-12 weeks. During this time, adherence to physical therapy and activity restrictions is crucial. Full recovery, including return to most normal activities, can take 6-12 months. The success of the osteotomy relies heavily on diligent rehabilitation and following post-operative instructions to ensure proper bone healing and optimal knee function. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon will monitor progress and guide recovery.
Hospital Stay
1–7 days
Varies by procedure
Initial Rest
1–2 weeks
Light activity only
Follow-up Visit
2–4 weeks
Wound check & review
Full Recovery
6–12 weeks
Back to normal activity
Recovery & Wellness Tips
- Comprehensive medical evaluation, including blood tests, X-rays, and possibly an MRI, to assess overall health and knee condition.
- Review of current medications; certain drugs like blood thinners may need to be stopped before surgery.
- Fasting for a specified period (typically 6-8 hours) before the procedure.
- Smoking cessation is highly recommended to improve healing and reduce complications.
- Arranging for post-operative support, including transportation home and assistance during initial recovery.
