Every year, more than 600,000 Americans undergo knee replacements. By 2030, that number is expected to increase by nearly 200%. Knee replacement, also called knee arthroplasty, is a relatively common, cost-effective, and elective surgery for people suffering from knee osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a knee injury.
Knee arthroplasty can give people a new lease on life by relieving pain and restoring joint function in severely diseased knee joints. If you’ve tried all other non-surgical options but still aren’t satisfied, you might be looking to take the next step. But how do you know when you’re ready for surgery?
If exercise, physical therapy, and medication (even strong anti-inflammatory drugs) aren't reducing your pain or making it bearable, it may be time to discuss knee replacement surgery with your doctor.
If your injury or arthritis is making it difficult to perform daily tasks like getting out of bed, dressing, bathing, or it’s getting in the way of working and sleeping, you should start thinking about surgery. Knee replacement can greatly improve your quality of life by relieving you from pain, increasing mobility, and allowing you to engage in low-impact physical activity.
Whether you were born with a deformed knee or whether it’s a result of injury or arthritis, knee replacement surgery can help. If your leg bows in or out, a knee replacement can correct it. In some cases of severe deformity, however, surgery can be more complicated. Be sure to discuss all the details with your doctor sooner rather than later.
Knee implants can result in long-lasting pain relief for up to 95% of patients. An implant also usually lasts anywhere from 15 to 25 years in worst cases, so regardless of age, it can help patients experience long-term improvement in their joints. Speak to your doctor about whether a partial or total knee replacement is better for you and how to approach the recovery process to maximize your chances of success.
The majority of people who get knee replacements are in this age range, but it’s not a deciding factor. However, a study found that 90% of patients wait too long to have knee replacement surgery. As you get older, your chances of developing severe osteoarthritis might increase, so make sure to talk to your doctor about knee replacement surgery, so you can get the most benefit.
Knee replacement can significantly boost your quality of life. If you or someone you love is experiencing pain or decreased knee function, the surgeons at Matthew D. Barber, M.D. can help. Call (251) 410-3600 or contact us today to see how we can help you!
While Dr Barber focuses exclusively on the management of knee and hip problems with a focus on joint replacement procedures, he is proud to be a source of information for patients and has several specialist partners at ALABAMA ORTHOPAEDIC CLINIC who are available to treat any orthopedic condition.
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