Are you among the millions of people suffering from knee pain and other symptoms caused by damaged knee joints? If so, a partial or total knee replacement may be a viable option for relief. But how do you determine if this surgery is right for you?
Don’t worry — we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled a list of signs that indicate it may be time to consider a partial or total knee replacement to alleviate your knee pain. Keep reading as we discuss how this surgery can benefit your health and well-being.
1. Experiencing persistent pain in the knee, especially when engaging in physical activities
Persistent pain in the knee, especially when engaging in physical activities, is a clear sign that you may need a partial or total knee replacement. Knee conditions such as Osteoarthritis can cause chronic inflammation and pain in the joint, severely limiting your mobility and quality of life.
If the following non-surgical treatments are not providing adequate relief, consider a knee replacement procedure.
- Medications
- Lifestyle changes
- Physical therapy
Knee replacements can help eliminate severe pain caused by Osteoarthritis and other conditions while restoring movement and flexibility in the joint. Surgery involves replacing knee parts with metal and plastic implants that act like natural joints and allow for more comfortable movements. This surgery is typically only recommended if other treatment methods have failed and is the only way to relieve pain.
2. Difficulty standing up or going up and down stairs
Difficulty standing up or going down stairs is a sign that your knee joint may have exceeded its potential for natural healing. It might be time to consider the benefits of knee replacement surgery.
A degenerated knee joint will often become stiff and sore, leading to decreased mobility and difficulty performing activities like climbing stairs. Due to this condition, you may need to receive the surgery.
3. Limited range of motion when bending or straightening your knee
A limited range of motion when bending or straightening your knee indicates that you may need a partial or total knee replacement. When the ligaments and cartilage in the knee are worn out, they can no longer support normal movement.
This causes pain and stiffness, usually making it difficult to use your joint. In some cases, surgery may be the only way to relieve the pain and restore mobility.
4. Popping and grinding noises coming from your knee when you move it
Popping or grinding noises coming from your knee when you move is a sign that the cartilage in the joint has worn away. The joint’s bones are rubbing against each other without any cushioning, which causes grating, popping, or clicking sounds. This indicates that you may need a partial or total knee replacement.
Don’t let chronic knee pain keep you from living your life
Chronic knee pain can be debilitating and negatively impact your daily life. Several signs may indicate you need a knee replacement. Those signs include pain, swelling, instability, difficulty in mobility, and a grinding feeling when flexing the joint.
If you have any of these issues, Memorial Hermann Surgical Hospital First Colony is here to help with leading-edge CORI Robotic-Assisted Knee Surgery! Not only does this surgery reduce recovery time, but it also allows for less invasive procedures and much more precise joint alignment than manual surgery alone.
You don’t have to suffer from chronic knee pain anymore. Schedule a consultation with our physicians today to learn how we can help you live a more pain-free life!