If your knee is stopping you walking, climbing stairs, exercising or enjoying everday life, a total knee replacement can provide excellent pain relief and restore your quality of life
Mr Tom Symes is a specialist Knee replacement surgeon providing personalised treatment for patients across Hull, East Yorkshire & North Lincolnshire.

What happens during Knee Replacement Surgery?
During the Surgery, the worn cartilage and damaged bone are carefully removed and replaced with precision-engineered metal and plastic compenents
The operation aims to:
- Relieve pain
- Restore alignment
- Balance the ligaments
- Improve movement
- Create a stable, natural-feeling knee
Where appropriate, computer navigation or robotic technology may be used further personalise the operation
Knee Replacement Recovery Timeline
Day of surgery
- Stand and walk with a physiotherapist
- Begin knee exercises immediately
1-2 days
Return home (many patients are suitable for day-case surgery)
2-6 weeks
- Walking steadily improves
- Swelling reduces
- Return to driving when safe
3 months
Most normal daily activities resumed
Why Choose Mr Tom Symes?
- Specialist Knee replacement surgeon
- High-volume hip and knee replacement practice
- Expertise in computer navigated replacment
- Personalised alignment philosophy
- Enhanced pathways
- Modern evidence-based techniques focused on achieving the best possible outcome
Book a consultation to discuss the most appropriate treatment for your knee pain
When should I consider a knee replacement?
You may benefit from knee replacement surgery if you have:
- Knee Osteoarthritis
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Difficulty walking
- Pain Climbing Stairs
- Night Pain
- Reduced mobility despite physiotherapy, injections or medication
The decision to have surgery is based on how much your symptoms affect your life, rather than your age alone.
Benefits of a Knee Replacement
Most patients experience:
- Significant Pain Relief
- Improved Walking Distance
- Better Mobility
- Improved Sleep
- Easier Stair Climbing
- Return to Hobbies and Holidays
- Improved Confidence and Independence

Frequently Asked Questions?
How painful is a knee replacement?
The first weeks require commitment to rehabilitation, but modern pain management keeps discomfort well controlled. Most patients quickly notice that their arthritis pain has gone.
How long does a knee replacement last?
Modern knee replacements commonly last 20 years or longer.
Can I kneel afterwards?
Many patients can kneel after recovery. It often feels unusual rather than painful, and confidence usually improves with practice.
When can I drive?
Most patients return to driving after approximately six weeks, depending on recovery and vehicle control.
Can I return to golf or cycling?
Yes. Walking, cycling, swimming and gym exercise are all encouraged following recovery