HOW DO I KNOW IF A KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY IS REQUIRED?
Knee replacment
If your knee pain has become so severe that it is interfering with your daily activities, it's time to consult an orthopedic surgeon about a knee replacement. When non-surgical options such as physical therapy, medications, or a walking aid are no longer effective, knee replacement surgery may be recommended.
HOW COMMON ARE KNEE REPLACEMENTS?
In many hospitals, knee replacement surgery has become a standard procedure. In the United States, approximately 600,000 total knee replacements are performed each year. The procedure entails replacing the failing knee joint with a prosthetic that performs the same functions as your knee did previously.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE INDICATORS THAT I REQUIRE A KNEE REPLACEMENT?
- Stiffness in the knees or joints
- Inflammation or chronic swelling
- Medication and physical therapy are no longer effective in treating pain.
- Impairment of mobility
- Knee deformity (bowing in or out)
- Daily activities are hampered due to grating or grinding of the knee joint.
- Sleep deprivation as a result of pain
- Climbing stairs or getting out of chairs is difficult.
- Pain that worsens when it rains Pain that worsens after activities
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we strongly advise you to see an Orthopaedic Surgeon for a professional opinion on the next best course of action for you. If your pain has recently worsened, it may be time to consider knee replacement surgery before it gets any worse. Existing medical conditions, age, weight, and lifestyle all play a role in determining whether you should have a knee replacement or another procedure.
WHAT EXACTLY IS A TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT?
Knee replacement, also known as total knee replacement or knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that resurfaces a knee that has been damaged by arthritis. Knee replacement surgery can help you get rid of pain and regain function in your knee joint. The procedure entails removing damaged and diseased bone and cartilage from your knee joint and surrounding areas and replacing it with a cemented metal and plastic prosthetic joint.