Did the surgeon give you exercises to do before surgery? The stronger your legs are, the better you will be able to do the necessary therapy, and the safer you will be - fall risk will be less. Here is a good summary of the usually suggested exercises: https://www.allinahealth.org/health-conditions-and-treatments/health-library/patient-education/total-knee-replacement/preparing-for-surgery/before-surgery-knee-exercises

Also, ask for an ice machine - rent or borrow - to use 24/7 the first week or two after surgery! If you have swelling or pain, this can also be used overnight to help you rest better. (See picture.) Then get a good supply of refreezeable ice packs and some kind of pouch or device to hold them in place, and plan to use a few times a day for as long as it helps.

Deep breath, think about feeling better!
Sue

I agree that people only seem to post the bad results. How often do you see a good restaurant review??? Always how bad the food or service was, right?? I had TKR of my left knee in early July and already walking often without a cane. The pre and post exercises you will do are VERY important to get the ROM of that knee working. My PT person is impressed that my ROM is already at 112 at just 4 weeks. Yes, there is discomfort, but nothing like some would have you believe. Stay positive and think of why you are doing this in the first place. Ice and elevate, especially after exercise. Good luck and quit reading all the negative posts -- here and elsewhere.

Here’s how I prepared. Go to excellent physical therapist (just as important as a good surgeon) before surgery. I did for 6 weeks to strengthen muscles in leg. Went to seamstress had long zipper placed in seam on side capris so therapist could get to where he needed. It opened up to my hip. You can also buy a pair of pants from rebound wear that already has zipper in. Also had sweats that snapped all way up and down. Had a walker, a cane ( did not use it though), a commode with handles that go over your toilet (a godsend)
I had a bolster that I purchased that was recommended by my pt, an ice machine, and a strap that foot goes in and can use your hand to slide foot up and down. Get to therapy right away I was at office the day I got out of hospital! Lots of hard work . Been a year and I still have exercise regimen to do for life. My new knee I s awesome!!!! Didn’t get much sleep for 3 months had a setback with pain but pt said that was normal didn’t last long. Only took maybe 5 total narcotic pills they didn’t do much very constipating. Your feelings of anxiety are normal! Best of luck. Also surgeon gave me a handicap placard for a year which I really didn’t need very much.