When Should You Get A Knee Replacement Done?
For many, a total knee replacement is like a new life. Like other surgeries, this involves some level of risks. For some others, recovery and rehabilitation also take a while. Knee replacement is a standard process. However, whether to opt for the same or no and when to do the surgery includes both personal and practical consideration.
Why wait?
Many do not consider surgery until pain and mobility become a concern and unbearable. It takes time to come to terms with the need for knee replacement. Surgery is a big deal. It is costly and can disrupt your routine. Besides, there are always some risks involved. Before going for surgery, doctors still consider a less invasive treatment first. In some scenarios, these will improve pain and comfort levels without the requirement of surgery.
Some of the non-surgical ways are lifestyle changes, medication, injections, strengthening exercises, and acupuncture. The most recommended treatment from these is acupuncture, and there is enough evidence that confirms its effectiveness. There are also less invasive surgeries that help relieve pain which removes the unnecessary particles from inside the knees. However, experts do not recommend such intervention, especially for those who have arthritis.
When does the doctor advise for surgery?
Before recommending a knee replacement surgery, the orthopaedic surgeon conducts a thorough examination of the knee using X-ray and an MRI to check the inside of it. They also check your recent medical history for deciding if the surgery is needed.
If the doctor or surgeon advises for surgery, they will let you know the pros and cons while helping you with the decision. Not considering a surgery could lead you to problems like joint pains, weakening and loss of muscles and ligaments, difficulty in engaging in everyday activities, the decline in overall health, sadness and depression, and other complications which may require further surgery.
These reduce your quality of life and harm the emotional and physical well-being.
Surgeries are done early on have immediate effect. There are chances of functioning more effectively in the months and years to come. Younger people who undergo surgery might need a revision, as it results in wear and tear.
What are the benefits of the surgery?
Pain relief
Knee replacement makes you pain-free while you walk, stand, run, or even when you sit or lie down.
Improved mobility
Knee pain disables you to walk long distances. Massive knee pain might prevent short distance walk within the house itself. Surgery is appropriate, especially if you face trouble walking more than a few blocks without experiencing massive pain.
Better treatment response
If chronic inflammation and swelling do not get better with rest, medication, or other treatments, total knee replacement is ideal. Long-term use of such medications, especially opioid pain relievers, can cause complications.
There is no exact time when you can have the surgery done. Some cannot get it done owing to their weight, age, medical conditions, and other such parameters. If you are still unsure, consult a surgeon for a second opinion.