The condition of the knee might also be viewed during arthroscopic knee surgery. With advanced OA, crepitus (a grinding sensation) may become noticeable. There also may be visible joint deformity or a feeling that the knee is going to “give out.” With the right treatment, you can get the relief you need to better manage your symptoms and stay active. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), osteotomy may help if you have early-stage OA of the knee that affects the bone on only one side of the joint.
For example, you may need to stop taking certain medications temporarily. Everyone recovers differently, but most people are allowed to return to driving by the end of 4 weeks. You may need to use a cane or walker for a short period of time after your operation.
When conservative treatments for osteoarthritis of the knee fail to provide relief, a total knee replacement surgery may be recommended by your healthcare provider. This procedure involves removing damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint and replacing it with an artificial implant made of metal and plastic. Total knee replacement surgery is a common and highly successful procedure that can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from severe osteoarthritis.
The large majority of patients report substantial or complete relief of their arthritic symptoms once they have recovered from a total knee replacement. This article reviews the benefits, risks, and alternatives to total knee replacement surgery (which is sometimes called total knee arthroplasty). Choosing to have knee replacement surgery is a big decision, and it’s completely normal to feel anxious and have lots of questions.
Osteotomy may be considered as a way of putting off a knee replacement operation. The operation has a higher rate of failure than total knee replacement – which may be caused by the arthritis progressing to other parts of your knee. Some surgeons advise a total knee replacement as the results are more predictable. Others feel that it’s better to preserve the rest of the knee joint if it isn’t affected by arthritis. Jim is grateful for his orthopaedic surgery, and understands that research is key to continue to improve the experience for future patients. “The implants that were used in the replacement surgery have a life-span of approximately ten years, based on the lifestyle of the patient,” he explains.
People also benefit from self-management programs that provide information about living with osteoarthritis of the knee. Talk to your healthcare provider about ways you can use exercise and other self-care to manage your symptoms. There is some level of inflammation present in all types of arthritis. Conditions that fall into the category of true inflammatory arthritis are often very well managed with a variety of medications and more treatments are coming out all the time.
Benefits of Osteoarthritis Total Knee Replacement
- Relief from chronic pain and stiffness in the knee
- Improved mobility and ability to perform daily activities
- Enhanced quality of life and overall well-being
- Long-term durability of the artificial knee joint
FAQs about Total Knee Replacement for Osteoarthritis
- How long is the recovery period after total knee replacement surgery?
- What are the potential risks or complications of total knee replacement?
- Will I need physical therapy after total knee replacement?
The recovery period varies for each individual, but most patients can expect to return to normal activities within 6-12 weeks following surgery.
Possible risks include infection, blood clots, nerve damage, and allergic reactions to anesthesia. Your healthcare provider will discuss these risks with you before the surgery.
Yes, physical therapy is an important part of the recovery process and can help you regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your new knee joint.
