Knee replacement is a procedure where damaged joint surfaces are replaced with artificial components to reduce pain and improve function.
When knee pain significantly affects your daily activities and does not improve with medicines, physiotherapy, injections, or lifestyle modifications.
No. While most patients are older adults, younger patients with severe arthritis may also benefit from surgery.
No. Only the damaged cartilage and a small amount of bone are resurfaced and replaced with implants.
Modern knee replacements commonly last 15–25 years or longer, depending on activity levels and individual factors.
Yes, it is a major operation, but it is also one of the most successful and commonly performed orthopedic procedures worldwide.
Pain is expected initially but is well controlled with modern anesthesia, medications, and rehabilitation protocols.
Most patients stay for 1–3 days, depending on recovery and overall health.
Most patients begin standing and walking with assistance on the same day or the day after surgery.
Yes. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in regaining movement, strength, and confidence after surgery.
Most daily activities become easier within 6–12 weeks, while complete recovery may continue for several months.
Yes. Most patients can comfortably climb stairs after adequate rehabilitation.
Some patients can, but it is not guaranteed. The ability depends on flexibility, implant design, and individual recovery.
Many patients can perform partial squatting, but deep squatting may not be advisable or comfortable for everyone.
Most patients can resume driving within 4–6 weeks, provided they have good control of the operated leg and are not taking strong pain medications.
Yes. Weight management, exercise, physiotherapy, medications, braces, and injections may help in earlier stages of arthritis.
Robotic systems can assist with implant positioning, but good outcomes depend more on proper patient selection, surgical planning, and surgeon expertise.
Yes. A surgical scar is unavoidable, but it typically fades and becomes less noticeable with time.
Potential risks include infection, blood clots, stiffness, persistent pain, implant wear, and the need for revision surgery.
In selected patients, both knees can be replaced during the same operation. The decision depends on overall health and surgeon assessment.
Sometimes. It is helpful to inform security personnel that you have a knee replacement.
Yes. Walking, cycling, swimming, and low-impact exercises are encouraged after recovery.
The replaced surfaces do not develop arthritis, but surrounding tissues can still experience age-related changes.
Delaying surgery may lead to worsening deformity, muscle weakness, reduced mobility, and a more challenging recovery.
A combination of appropriate timing, realistic expectations, a well-performed surgery, and dedicated rehabilitation.
You may be ready if your knee pain regularly limits walking, climbing stairs, sleep, work, hobbies, or quality of life despite appropriate non-surgical treatment.