Knee replacement, or knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a damaged, worn, or diseased knee joint with an artificial implant made of metal and plastic components. It is often recommended for individuals with severe knee pain and reduced mobility due to conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or traumatic injury. Before considering knee replacement, patients typically experience symptoms such as persistent pain, swelling, and stiffness that limit daily activities and don’t improve with medication or physical therapy. The surgery aims to relieve pain, restore function, and enhance quality of life. The procedure typically lasts a few hours, followed by several days of hospital recovery. After discharge, patients are encouraged to undergo physical therapy to facilitate optimal recovery, building strength and improving mobility. Full recovery can take several months, but most patients regain significant knee function and enjoy improved mobility and reduced pain.
People who undergo knee replacement typically experience:
Persistent pain that interferes with daily activities, even at rest
Reduced knee mobility and stiffness
Knee deformity, such as bowing or knock-knees
Swelling that doesn’t go away with regular treatments
Difficulty standing, walking, or climbing stairs due to pain
The main reasons for knee replacement include:
Osteoarthritis: The most common cause is due to the natural wearing down of cartilage.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder causing inflammation and joint damage.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis following an injury or fracture.
Other conditions, such as knee deformities, joint infections, or a history of previous knee surgery, may also necessitate replacement.
Consult a doctor if you:
Have chronic knee pain and inflammation that limits movement
Experience discomfort even while resting or during the night
Notice changes in knee shape or alignment
Have tried other treatments (medications, injections, physical therapy) without success
Early diagnosis and treatment can slow progression and may prevent the need for surgery.
Before surgery, doctors perform various tests to assess knee health:
Physical Examination: To determine range of motion, strength, and alignment
X-rays: Provide a clear picture of bone damage and alignment
MRI or CT scans: Show details of soft tissues, cartilage, and other joint structures
Blood Tests: Used to rule out infection and assess overall health
Do’s:
Follow physical therapy instructions closely.
Take prescribed pain medication as directed.
Initially, use assistive devices like crutches or walkers.
Elevate your leg and apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
Practice gentle, doctor-approved exercises to maintain knee function.
Don’ts:
Avoid high-impact activities, such as running or jumping.
Avoid kneeling, squatting, or sitting on low furniture for the first few days.
Avoid sudden or jerky movements that may strain the knee.
Avoid lifting heavy weights or engaging in activities that put stress on the knee.
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For this topic, our authors used some of the following resources:
Cleveland Clinic | Knee Replacement
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