Knee pain caused by arthritis or injury can severely impact your quality of life. When conservative treatments like medications, physical therapy, or injections no longer provide relief, it may be time to consider knee replacement surgery.
When Should You Consider Knee Replacement?
Knee replacement surgery is often recommended for individuals who:
- Experience constant knee pain, even at rest.
- Have difficulty walking or climbing stairs.
- Cannot participate in everyday activities due to knee stiffness or pain.
The Knee Replacement Process
During knee replacement surgery, the damaged parts of the knee joint are removed and replaced with a prosthesis made of metal and plastic. This new joint allows for smoother movement and significantly reduces pain.
Recovery After Surgery
While the thought of surgery can be daunting, modern knee replacement techniques have made recovery faster and more comfortable:
- Hospital Stay: Patients usually stay in the hospital for 1-3 days.
- Physical Therapy: Essential for regaining strength and mobility in the knee.
- Full Recovery: Most patients return to normal activities within 6-12 weeks.
Knee replacement can be life-changing for those suffering from chronic knee pain, offering long-term pain relief and improved mobility.
