Bone Health: Keeping Everyone In Your Family Healthy

Millions of individuals have benefited from knee replacement surgery, a prevalent procedure that restores mobility and relieves chronic pain. However, deciding to undergo knee replacement surgery is a big decision and one that should not be taken lightly. This piece will discuss when it’s time for knee replacement and what to expect during the procedure and recovery. 

The primary cause of knee replacement surgery is osteoarthritis, a progressive joint condition that leads to the gradual deterioration of knee cartilage. This can result in pain, stiffness, and difficulty performing everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, and getting in and out of chairs. If you are experiencing these symptoms, and they are affecting your quality of life, it may be time to consider knee replacement surgery.

Knee replacement surgery is also performed for various other reasons, including different forms of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis and knee joint injuries. In certain instances, younger patients with severely damaged knees from sports injuries or trauma may be advised to undergo knee replacement surgery.

The knee replacement surgery entails the removal of damaged or diseased areas of the knee joint and the substitution with artificial implants composed of metal, plastic, or ceramic materials. The surgery can be done using traditional open surgery or minimally invasive techniques. Based on your personal circumstances, your surgeon will determine the most suitable approach.

Following surgery, anticipate a hospital stay for a few days. During this time, you will receive pain relief medication and engage in physical therapy to aid in the recovery of strength and mobility. Afterward, there will be several weeks or even months of rehabilitation, consisting of exercises to strengthen the muscles around your knee joint and restore your range of motion.

It is crucial to understand that knee replacement surgery does not provide a complete solution for knee pain and mobility problems. While the vast majority of patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms, there is always a chance of complications, and some patients may not experience the desired outcome. Prior to the surgery, your surgeon will engage in a thorough discussion with you regarding the potential advantages and risks. Together, you will assess if knee replacement is the appropriate choice for you.

If you're dealing with persistent knee pain and mobility limitations, knee replacement surgery could be the answer you've been looking for. However, it’s important to approach the decision with caution and education. Talk to your doctor about your options, including non-surgical treatments like physical therapy and joint injections, before making a decision. If you choose to move forward with the surgery, collaborate closely with your healthcare team to achieve the most favorable result. With the right support and guidance, knee replacement surgery can help you get back to the activities you love and improve your overall quality of life.

Contact a local orthopedic surgeon to learn more about knee replacement surgery.