Arthroscopic surgeons in New York detail what you can expect if you need total knee replacement surgery.
Those who suffer from osteoarthritis and other types of arthritis commonly need total knee replacement (TKR) surgery. When the joint cartilage breaks down, patients will have limited movement and pain. This surgery is the best way to repair the knee and relieve patients of their chronic pain.
TKR surgery is complex, so you must have a knee surgeon you can trust to operate on you successfully. At IMC Bone Doc in New York, our board-certified knee replacement surgeons have over a century of combined medical experience. So, if your knee hurts or you're considering total knee replacement surgery, contact us as soon as possible to schedule an appointment with one of our highly skilled doctors.
What is total knee replacement surgery?
Total knee replacement, also called knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure to repair severe damage to the knee joint. After a knee injury, if non-invasive therapies and treatments are not improving your condition, you may need this surgery. During the procedure, a surgeon will remove damaged bone and cartilage and replace it with plastic and metal fixtures. A successful knee replacement will stabilize the joint and eliminate the patient's pain.
Do I need a knee replacement?
Contact an orthopedic specialist if you suffer from knee pain and stiffness and find daily activities challenging. A doctor can examine your knee and decide the best plan of action. You may need knee replacement surgery if:
- The pain and discomfort of your knee limit daily activities like climbing stairs, walking and getting in and out of chairs.
- You have knee pain while resting or knee pain that disturbs your sleep.
- Your leg is deformed (e.g., bowed knees, improper knee alignment).
- You experience pain and swelling in your knee that does not go away with rest and medication.
- Medication, rest, injections, and physical therapy are not bettering your comfort and range of motion.
What's the recovery time for TKR surgery?
After a knee replacement, most patients stay overnight at the hospital, either one or two nights. Sometimes, patients may be allowed to return home the same day. It is crucial that you follow the proper recovery steps to return to your pre-knee replacement lifestyle. Physical therapy will often begin the day after your surgery. Total recovery time tends to take around 12 weeks. By the time you are released from the hospital, there are a few things you should be able to do without any assistance:
- Stand up.
- Use the bathroom.
- Bathe yourself.
- Get dressed without help.
- Go on long walks.
- Go up and down flights of stairs.
Get relief from your knee pain. Talk to a knee surgeon today about your options.
You won't know the extent of your knee injury unless you consult with a doctor. If you wait too long, your injury may worsen. After an examination, your doctor may suggest a knee replacement. The success rate of this surgery is extremely high, with more than 90 percent of patients experiencing relief.
At IMC Bone Doc, our surgeons are trained and experienced in diagnosing and treating knee pain. We provide our patients with exceptional medical care in New York. We can examine your injury, diagnose it, and provide the best treatment, including knee placement surgery. In addition, we typically have same-day appointments available for booking. Learn more about how we can help you. Schedule an appointment at one of our seven offices in the New York City area, including the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island.
