Knee Pain That Won’t Go Away
The majority of total knee replacement patients have knee joint damage due to arthritis, which causes severe pain, restricts daily activities, and limits the range of motion of the knee. A total knee replacement can help relieve pain and restore pain in severely damaged knee joints.
What is a total knee replacement?
Total knee replacement, also called knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes damaged or diseased parts of the knee joint. The joint is then replaced with a prosthesis made of either ceramic, metal, or plastic. The new joint relieves pain and improves the function of the knee joint.
A few signs you might need surgery
There are several reasons why a doctor may recommend knee replacement surgery. Many patients have been treated for arthritis for years but have seen no positive results. Common complaints are related to restrictions on daily life and pain.
1. Struggling with daily life activities
Severe knee pain that limits everyday activities may indicate that a total knee replacement is necessary. These activities include getting dressed, driving a car, or getting in and out of chairs. Restrictions to daily life may indicate severe knee problems.
2. Continuous pain that won’t go away
Many patients with knee pain are prescribed medication to relieve symptoms and increase mobility. These include anti-inflammatory drugs, cortisone injections, or physical therapy. If pain and joint inflammation persist despite nonsurgical treatments, then knee replacement surgery may be an option.
3. Can’t sleep due to pain?
As many as 80% of people with arthritis suffer from sleep problems due to pain. Some people control the pain with medications and nonsurgical intervention. A total knee replacement may be an option if sleep problems are severe and persist despite treatment.
4. A walk around the block is a challenge
Immobility due to joint pain or weakness is a severe symptom. If a patient requires the use of an assistive device such as a cane or walker due to knee instability or discomfort, then a knee replacement may be appropriate.
The damage of arthritis to your knees
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are leading types of arthritis that may severely affect the knee joint. These types of arthritis cause damage to the knee joint, reduce the range of motion and can lead to pain and stiffness.
Should I have surgery?
Total knee replacements have been found to relieve pain, increase mobility, and last for 15 years or longer after the surgery. Every patient is different, and recommendations for surgery should be made based on a patient’s pain and disability. The decision to have a total knee replacement surgery should be a cooperative one between the patient and the orthopedic surgeon.
