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Is It Time for a Knee Replacement?

Knee replacement is usually considered the last resort.

However, in some cases, it becomes inevitable!

While the time and need for a knee replacement varies with the person, let’s look at some generic signs your knees potentially need a replacement.

Prolonged Pain

When your knees pain, doctors usually ask you to rest, undergo physiotherapy, or take medicines to alleviate the pain. However, if your pain persists beyond these treatments, you must consult your doctor and explore knee replacement options.

Your knees are likely to require a replacement even when your pain restricts you from routine movements like walking, climbing stairs, or standing.

  • Continuous Swelling

Consistent swelling that doesn’t reduce even after taking medications is another indication for a knee replacement. It indicates degeneration of the cartilage and/ or an unstable knee. If that’s happening with you, you must consult an orthopedic surgeon.

  • Joint Deformity

If you’ve been suffering from arthritis and it has advanced, it can affect the way you walk. The progression of arthritis may lead to visible changes in the alignment of your knee like bowing in or out. Besides, even a grinding or clicking sound while moving the knee calls for knee replacement surgery.

Loss of Functions

Knees are designed to bend and straighten seamlessly to support routine movements like sitting, walking, standing up, and so on. However, when doing that becomes difficult, you can consider changing your knees. Furthermore, a significant weakness or instability in the knee joint also points to a replacement.

  • Reduced Quality of Lifestyle

In some cases, the knee pain affects sleep or causes emotional concerns, or both. Besides, the pain doesn’t allow people to exercise, take part in social activities, or pursue their favorite hobbies. If you’ve been undergoing something similar, you must visit an orthopedic doctor and discuss your case indicating knee replacement.

  • Aging

Aging is among the most common reasons for knee replacement. It is common, particularly in people above 60. Younger people usually aren’t prescribed surgery as their active lifestyle can cause the knee to wear early, requiring another replacement. However, one must note that knee replacement can be done at any age, depending on the circumstances and the person’s overall health. A detailed consultation session with the doctor can help you conclude whether you need a replacement.

  • Imaging Results

When you complain of persistent knee pain, one of the first things doctors suggest is undergoing an X-ray or MRI. If the results show severe arthritis or loss of cartilage, they will likely recommend surgery, although they will consider many other factors before they finalize their recommendation.

Final Words!

So, that was about some signs that potentially indicate a knee replacement.

However, you must note that although knee replacement helps you get rid of the pain, it involves a considerable recovery time and a targeted effort to recover.

You must be prepared for these aspects and ensure you discuss them so that the knee replacement surgery is successful.

Besides, choosing the right knee replacement surgeon also matters in your endeavor to eliminate the pain and live more freely.

With over 24 years of experience, Ranka Hospital serves as one.

Led by Dr. Ramesh Ranka, a renowned orthopedic surgeon, Ranka Hospital is one of Pune’s leading orthopedic hospitals with a competent infrastructure, a team of seasoned surgeons, and a track record of treating hundreds of patients successfully.

Besides, our personalized and comprehensive consultation ensures safe and sustainable outcomes. Call us at +91 – 20 – 24261530 to book an appointment.

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