Despite being the foundation of our body, legs are often underestimated. The knees, which are comprised of bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons, enable us to bend, stand straight, and bear the weight of our entire body. Any knee pain, whether due to disease or injury, should not be ignored as it can result in severe discomfort even during basic movements such as walking. Dependency on our body makes the limitations of simple movements concerning. Knee pain can range from acute to chronic, with varying levels of complexity.
Fortunately, medical technology has advanced, and pain can be alleviated through surgical or non-surgical interventions, depending on the extent of the knee damage. Non-surgical treatments include medication such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or Cox-2 inhibitors, but they have some side effects. Temporary solutions such as using knee pads, support for walking,
lifestyle changes, and strengthening exercises may also be helpful. However, if the pain is unbearable and painkillers are ineffective, knee replacement surgery is the best option. Knee replacement surgery is a safe and effective permanent solution for pain relief. Knee replacement surgery is generally necessary when bone quality has significantly deteriorated, and non-medical treatments have been ineffective. As the cartilage cushioning the knee joint wears down with age, the bones rub against each other, causing severe pain, which is known as osteoarthritis.
Injuries to the cartilage, bones, or inflammation caused by infections or other conditions can also result in severe knee pain. People with critical joint diseases may have difficulty performing even simple leg movements. Rheumatoid arthritis is another form of knee injury that can result in chronic knee pain, as the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing pain and swelling. Additionally, tears in the cartilage or ligaments can cause irreversible damage to the knee.
WHAT KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY?
During a knee replacement surgery, a clean metal or plastic material is used to cover the ends of the bones, creating a new joint with the kneecap. To explain in simpler terms, damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the knee joint and replaced with an artificial joint. It is important to note that this surgery is only recommended for individuals with arthritis or a severe injury that cannot be managed through other treatments.
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY?
The main objective of this surgical procedure is to alleviate or completely eliminate pain. Thus, it should only be contemplated when the ability to endure the pain is in question and surpasses the threshold.
WHEN SHOULD ONE CONSIDER A KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY?
As the purpose of knee replacement surgery is to alleviate severe knee pain, there are certain signs that indicate the need for this surgical procedure. These signs include
- Inability to walk or stand for extended periods of time
- Difficulty sitting or standing up, experiencing extreme pain
- Discomfort when bending or straightening the knee
- Moderate to severe pain even when sitting or sleeping
If you are experiencing any of these signs, you may need to consider getting a knee replacement surgery.
SYMPTOMS FOR KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY
There are several symptoms that you may have overlooked, so it is important to carefully examine your condition and see if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Chronic knee pain that limits your daily activities and routine
- Knee swelling and stiffness that persists even after taking medications
- Difficulty in moving the knee or bending it fully
- Chronic inflammation and tenderness in the knee joint
- A feeling of warmth or warmth in the knee
- A sensation of grinding, popping, or clicking in the knee joint
- Bowing in or out of the knee, leading to a change in the leg alignment
- Failure to achieve relief from other treatments like medications, injections, or physical therapy
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice to determine if a knee replacement surgery is necessary for your condition.