A knee replacement typically results in decreased pain, more restful sleep, and a more stable knee. As a result, patients can lead more active and overall healthy lives. But when is the right time to get a knee replacement and what are your surgery options? At the ORTHOKnox orthopedic clinic in Knoxville, Tennessee, you can consult with your doctor about your knee replacement. We discuss how to plan the timing and type of knee replacement surgery for you below!
Should I try conservative treatments before knee replacement surgery?
Absolutely. Some conservative measures to try include the following:
- Physical therapy: Your physical therapist will work with you to exercise the muscles surrounding your knee, which will increase your joint’s range of motion and function and reduce knee pain.
- Weight loss: Excess weight puts more pressure on your joints. Following a healthy diet and exercise program to lose those extra pounds can ease the wear and tear of your joints.
- Exercise: Exercising can help stabilize your knee and keep it mobile, which helps with your joint function. Low-impact exercises, such as biking and swimming, are best. Consider consulting your physical therapist for exercise recommendations.
- Pain medications: Medications can help temporarily relieve knee pain, but they should not be relied upon long-term.
Pain that does not resolve, continued difficulty walking and sleeping due to pain and stiffness, or a knee injury may indicate that it is time for a knee replacement.
When should I get knee replacement surgery?
If conservative treatments have not worked for you and your doctor recommends surgery, you will need to discuss the timing of your knee surgery. Your doctor will likely recommend that you not wait too long or you risk damaging your knee further. Here are some considerations when planning your surgery:
- You will be limited during your recovery, which will last about 12 weeks, before being able to return to low-impact activities.
- High-impact sports are not recommended after knee surgery, so you may have to plan to transition to more recreational sports.
- Also, heavy-duty house or work projects should be completed before surgery or delayed until after your recovery.
What are my knee replacement options?
ORTHOKnox offers MAKOplasty®, which is an innovative surgical technique that allows your surgeon to use 3D technology and a robotic arm to precisely perform your knee surgery. With this technique, your surgeon will be able to preserve some of your own bone and tissue to achieve a more natural-feeling replacement. MAKOplasty® also results in a shorter hospital stay of about 24 hours, minimal blood loss, a short surgery time of about 1 hour, and a quicker rehabilitation. These factors make it an ideal option for most patients. You can see a video of the MAKOplasty® process here!
Where Can I Get Treatment for a Total Knee Replacement in Knoxville, TN
With its on-site physical therapists, board-certified surgeon, and Orthopedic Urgent Care that is available without an appointment, ORTHOKnox has got you covered. For more information about how ORTHOKnox can perform your knee surgery, call (865) 251-3030, or fill out our easy-to-use online appointment request form. We look forward to hearing from you!