Knee Replacement Surgery: Know Reasons Why A Knee Surgery Is Needed

Knee replacement procedures are a crucial medical intervention often advised for individuals grappling with the debilitating effects of knee arthritis. Arthritis in the knee can result in excruciating pain, hampered mobility, and a significant decline in the ability to carry out routine tasks.

In this blog, we delve deeper into the various reasons why knee replacement surgery emerges as a viable solution for those grappling with knee arthritis. Additionally, we aim to shed light on the telltale signs and symptoms that could indicate the necessity for this transformative procedure. Through this comprehensive exploration, we hope to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their knee health and potentially find relief from the burdensome impacts of knee arthritis.

What are The Signs You May Need Knee Replacement Surgery

Some common reasons for considering total knee replacement surgery include:

1. Chronic Knee Pain

Chronic knee pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

Arthritis: This is a condition that causes inflammation and damage to the cartilage in the joints.
Injury: This can be caused by a sudden trauma to the knee, such as a fall or sports injury.
Overuse: This can happen when you put too much stress on your knees, such as by running or playing sports.

When knee pain limits your daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or getting in and out of a chair, it is considered to be disabling. If non-surgical treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, and injections, do not work or if the pain is severe, you may need to consider knee arthroplasty

2. Knee Stiffness

Knee stiffness is a common symptom of knee arthritis. It is caused by the breakdown of the cartilage in the knee joint. This can make it difficult to move the knee, especially in the morning or after sitting for a long time.

There are a few reasons why your knee might feel stiff and difficult to move. One reason is that the cartilage in your knee joint has worn away. This can happen with age or due to injury. When the cartilage wears away, it no longer cushions the bones in your knee joint. This can cause friction between the bones, which can lead to pain and stiffness.

Additionally, knee stiffness can be attributed to joint inflammation. While inflammation is the body’s natural healing response, it can also result in pain and stiffness.

Finally, your knee might feel stiff because of scar tissue. Scar tissue can form after an injury or surgery. Knee stiffness can also form if you have rheumatoid arthritis. Scar tissue can restrict the movement of your knee joint.

If your knee feels stiff and difficult to move, it is important to see a doctor. They can diagnose the cause of your stiffness and recommend the best treatment. Knee arthroplasty may be the best option.

3. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when knee joint cartilage wears away, leading to bone-on-bone contact, pain, stiffness, and swelling. It is the most common cause of knee pain that leads to knee replacement surgery.

4. Rheumatoid Arthritis

This is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints, including the knee joint. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that triggers joint inflammation, affecting the knee joint as well. It can result in joint damage and deformities, sometimes necessitating knee replacement surgery to alleviate pain and enhance mobility.

5. Trauma

A knee injury, such as a fracture or ligament tear, can cause knee pain that may require Knee arthroplasty if other treatments are not effective.

6. Tendinitis

This condition is an inflammation of the tendons that attach to the knee joint, and it can cause pain and swelling in the knee. Tendinitis can be caused by overuse or injury, and knee replacement surgery may be necessary if other treatments do not provide relief.

Conclusion

If you or someone you know is facing any of these conditions and have tried treatments that haven’t worked, you might want to think about knee replacement surgery. But before making a decision, it’s a good idea to see an orthopedic surgeon. They will have you do some tests and then recommend the type of knee replacement that’s right for you. It could be a total knee replacement or a partial one. Don’t hesitate to seek expert advice if you’re considering this option.

FAQs

1. What Are The First Signs of Needing a Knee Replacement?

The first signs of needing a knee replacement are usually:

Chronic knee pain: This pain is often worse with activity and may even wake you up at night.
Stiffness in the knee: This stiffness may make it difficult to bend or straighten your knee.
Inability to do daily activities: This may include activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or getting in and out of a car.

Uncomfortable feeling in the knees when getting up: This may be due to pain, stiffness, or instability in the knee.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see an orthopedic surgeon to discuss whether knee replacement surgery is right for you. The surgeon will perform a physical examination and may order imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs to assess the damage to your knee joint.

2. What is The Average Age for Knee Replacement?

The average age for knee replacement surgery can vary from person to person, but it typically falls within the range of 60 to 80 years old. However, it’s important to note that age alone is not the sole factor in determining whether someone is a candidate for knee replacement. The decision to undergo knee replacement surgery is primarily based on the individual’s overall health, the severity of their knee pain or joint damage, and how much the condition impacts their daily life.

Younger individuals with advanced knee arthritis or other joint problems may also undergo knee replacement if conservative treatments have not been effective. Ultimately, the suitability for knee replacement is determined on a case-by-case basis by a medical professional.

3. What Is the Most Common Indication for Knee Replacement Surgery?

The most common indication for knee replacement surgery is severe osteoarthritis of the knee joint.

4. Is Knee Replacement Considered High Risk?

Knee replacement surgery is generally considered safe, but it does carry some risks. Generally before the procedure, your orthopedic surgeon will go over the risk factors of undergoing knee surgery with you.

5. How Long Is Recovery from Knee Replacement?

The recovery time from knee replacement surgery varies, but most patients should see significant improvement within a few weeks to a few months. Depending on the individual, full recovery could take several months to a year.