You Don’t Have To Keep Suffering

Knee pain is a common condition that affects approximately 25% of adults. Chronic knee pain can be debilitating and significantly impact quality of life and daily functioning. The condition gets worse with age and can be especially severe for 50, 60, and 70-year-olds. Some individuals may get sufficient relief from conservative treatments. However, for those who do not find relief from these treatment options, surgical intervention may be necessary. A potential option for chronic knee pain is knee replacement surgery, which may either be partial or total. Choosing the right surgery has helped millions to conquer knee pain, have better mobility, and enjoy life.

The problem with chronic knee pain

Chronic knee pain is often misunderstood and underestimated. This condition is caused by various factors, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, traumatic injury, and other underlying health conditions. People with a history of arthritis, obesity, or a previous knee injury are at risk of developing chronic knee pain in later years. These factors can contribute to the deterioration of the cartilage in the knee joint, leading to pain, inflammation, and limited mobility. The cartilage covers the bones that make the joint, preventing rubbing. If left untreated, chronic knee pain can worsen over time, leading to decreased physical activity, muscle weakness, and a decline in overall health.

Seeking appropriate treatment

Several treatment options are available for chronic knee pain. These include non-surgical approaches such as medication, physical therapy, and steroid injections. Assistive devices and lifestyle modifications, like diet and exercise, are also effective. When these conservative treatments no longer provide adequate pain relief and functional improvement, partial or total knee replacement (TKR) surgery may be considered as an option. A knee replacement attempts to remove the damaged parts of the knee and install a prosthetic replacement made of ceramics, metal, plastics, or a combination of materials. As the name implies, a surgeon can remove part or the entire joint based on the patient's needs.

When is partial knee replacement right for you?

Partial knee replacement is one of the surgical options for chronic knee pain. This surgery is typically recommended when the damage is limited to one compartment of the knee joint. The surrounding ligaments and structures are healthy and still intact. During the surgery, only the damaged portion of the knee joint is replaced with a prosthetic component. Partial knee replacement may be appropriate for localized pain, limited range of motion, and functional limitations that primarily affect only one specific area of the knee. This surgery may also be recommended to individuals who may not be suitable candidates for TKR due to factors such as age, overall health, or the presence of other medical conditions.

When is total knee replacement right for you?

Total knee replacement surgery involves removing all of the damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint to install artificial components. This surgery is typically recommended when the damage to the knee joint is extensive and involves multiple compartments. This may be the case when there is widespread cartilage deterioration, severe inflammation, and significant functional limitation. Additionally, TKR may be appropriate for individuals who have tried other non-surgical treatments without success. These candidates continue to experience debilitating pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility that significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. TKR is also useful for those who are in general good health and can benefit from techniques like robotic-arm assisted or minimally invasive surgery.

Develop a treatment plan with your healthcare provider

Chronic knee pain should not be ignored. Anyone experiencing knee pain should seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Conservative treatments would be explored first. If the condition is severe, the medical provider may recommend partial or total knee replacement surgery. These are viable options for pain relief and improved functionality. Choose the right option based on lifestyle, health goals, and the knee's overall function for the best long-term results.