Living with chronic knee pain can feel like a daily struggle, making even simple tasks like walking or climbing stairs difficult. Many people try to manage the discomfort with physical therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes, but as the pain worsens, these solutions often don’t provide enough relief. Despite this, the idea of knee replacement surgery can be intimidating, causing some to delay the procedure. However, waiting too long can lead to more pain, limited mobility, and a harder recovery. We spoke to our expert Dr Jayant Arora, Senior Director and Unit Head Orthopaedics, Fortis Hospital, Gurgaon, who explained why addressing the issue sooner rather than later is key to reclaiming your quality of life.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty or total knee replacement, is a surgical procedure designed to resurface a knee joint affected by arthritis. It involves capping the ends of the bones that make up the knee joint, as well as the kneecap, with metal and plastic components. This surgery is typically recommended for individuals with severe arthritis or significant knee injuries.
The Progression of Knee Arthritis
The most prevalent cause of knee replacement is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease marked by the progressive loss of the cartilage that cushions your joints. The bones start to rub against each other as this cartilage deteriorates, resulting in pain, swelling, and decreased movement.
As the condition develops over time, it leads to decreased function and an increase in pain. "Postponing knee replacement surgery prolongs the unchecked progression of this deteriorative process. The more damage that occurs with time can result in more complex surgical treatments. Better outcomes and a stop to further deterioration can be achieved with early intervention," highlighted Dr Arora.
Also Read: Arthritis Care: Expert Explains How Treatment Differs For Young And Old Patients
Increased Risk of Complications
Joint abnormalities and muscle atrophy are common side effects of advanced knee arthritis. "These changes may heighten the difficulty of the surgical process and raise the possibility of complications. Furthermore, additional comorbidities that slow down surgery and recovery may be present in elderly patients or those with more severe arthritis. Surgical intervention at an early stage can reduce these risks," added Dr Arora.
Impact on Quality of Life
Prolonged knee pain has a negative impact on your mental and emotional health in addition to your physical health. Anxiety, sadness, and sleep difficulties are all associated with persistent pain. It may also make it more difficult for you to engage in fun activities, which could negatively affect your social life and general well-being. "You can restore your life by choosing to get knee replacement surgery if recommended by your doctor. Your quality of life and mental health will improve when you resume your favourite activities due to improved mobility and decreased pain," said Arora.
Also Read: Arthritis Vs Arthralgia: Expert Explains The Difference Between These Joint Pain Conditions
Post-Surgery Benefits
A knee replacement surgery helps reduce pain, restore mobility and improve quality of life. Over the years, technological advancements have transformed joint replacement surgery. With innovations like robotic arm-assisted joint replacement, patients can recover faster, have shorter hospital stays, and experience less pain. A knee replacement allows patients to get back to their routine life which typically gets disrupted due to severe arthritis that makes even basic activities like walking, standing, climbing stairs, etc, extremely painful.
Bottomline
Dr Arora concluded, "Delaying knee replacement surgery can worsen pain, lower quality of life, and raise the chance of complications. Be stronger than arthritis and take action, consult your doctor and seek timely treatment. Better surgical outcomes, more mobility, and improved mental health are just a few advantages of early intervention."
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you are dealing with any health issues to get the necessary treatment.]