More than a half-million knee replacement surgeries are performed every year in the United States, and at least 90% of those patients experience incredibly positive changes to their life as a result. They report less knee pain, greater mobility, and the ability to maintain an active lifestyle again.
Knee replacement surgery can be completed as either a partial knee replacement or a total knee replacement. Both types can now be conducted in a minimally invasive way, and outpatient, so these patients are often able to go home the same day of the surgery.
As the saying goes, don’t fix what isn’t broken – so here’s how to know when you do need to have knee replacement surgery.
Arthritis Treatments Are Not Working
If you have difficulty doing everyday tasks, such as climbing stairs, walking, sitting, or any movement that requires the use of your knee, it may be due to osteoarthritis. Arthritis can also cause chronic knee pain.
With osteoarthritis, the cartilage that protects your femur, shinbone, and kneecap is worn down. It degenerates due to wear and tear over time or with heavy activity. Without a thick natural cushion of cartilage, your bones will eventually clash with one another – causing pain, and making it hard to move or even stand up.
Doctors may first recommend physical therapy, weight loss, or prescription drugs to treat arthritic knee pain. Other options include pain medicines that are directly injected into the joint. If your knee pain persists despite these treatments, and your daily activities are still limited, then it may be time to have knee replacement surgery.
Knee Deformity Requires Surgery
You can also undergo knee replacement surgery if your knees aren’t correctly proportioned, such as if your leg bows inward or outward. This can also occur after healing from an accident injury.
Your doctor will explain whether surgery is recommended to correct this issue or if there is a less-invasive method of repairing it.
Active Lifestyle Is Affecting Your Knee
If you participate in sports that put a lot of pressure on your knees, such as tennis or bowling, it may be causing chronic pain that only knee replacement surgery would repair. The surgery results are great for people who want to see long-lasting and life-changing improvements.
Previous Knee Surgery Needs Repair
If you had a knee replacement in the past and are now experiencing knee pain or mobility issues again, you can always get revision joint replacement surgery. Having a revision knee surgery is similar to a partial knee replacement, and the surgeon will simply replace the worn-out prosthetics with new prosthetics – making your knee work and feel as good as new again.
Knee Surgeons in Wooster
If you are experiencing any of the knee problems stated above, or if you would like your knee to be checked by a skilled surgeon, contact our friendly team at Wooster Community Hospital. We will evaluate your knee and determine whether you may require knee replacement surgery or if a less-invasive treatment may work instead.
Call us today at (330) 263-8144 or request a consultation now by filling out our online form. Get ready to enjoy a more pain-free, healthier you!
