I couldn't use crutches either. I used a walker. It's been my salvation through the knee replacement also.

I guess it was about the third or fourth day I called the doctor to see what we could do. I was having some serious pain and getting pretty upset that I was going to hurt myself if I did something I shouldn't. When I started physical therapy, they told me that I could do things I wasn't aware of. I was just too scared to try anything. The physical therapy was the turning point. After that, I recovered and went back to work. I guess it was about 10 days that I returned to work. Other people I know were back in less than a week afterwards. But......that may be too soon for normal activity. Remember, each case is different. With knee surgeries I've learned that one of the most important things is to not compare yourself to other people. You will recover at your own rate. When you get the doc on the phone, see if they can get you a walker--much better and much easier to use. Sometimes the orthopedic doctors have them right in the office for lending.
I guess another really important thing is to not rush your recovery by doing too much. Baby it for as long as possible. As long as your knee wasn't too badly damaged, it should heal and you'll be good for awhile Key words: no pivoting~~