Knee replacement is a surgical procedure that is designed to replace a damaged or worn-out knee joint with an artificial joint. The procedure is typically performed for patients who have severe knee pain or stiffness due to arthritis or other conditions that affect the knee joint.
During the knee replacement surgery, the surgeon removes the damaged or worn-out joint and replaces it with a metal or plastic implant that is designed to function like a natural knee joint. The surgery can take several hours to complete, and patients may need to stay in the hospital for a few days to recover.
After the surgery, patients typically undergo physical therapy to help them regain strength and mobility in the knee joint. Physical therapy can include exercises to improve range of motion and strength, as well as techniques to reduce pain and swelling.
While knee replacement surgery is generally considered safe and effective, there are some risks and potential complications, such as bleeding, infection, and nerve damage. Patients should discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with their surgeon to determine if it is the right choice for them.
Treatment for knee replacement can also involve non-surgical options, such as pain medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes to reduce stress on the knee joint. Patients may also be advised to lose weight or modify their activities to avoid putting excess strain on the knee joint. However, if these measures are not effective in reducing pain and improving mobility, knee replacement surgery may be recommended as a treatment option.
