December 19, 2024

Having knee pain robs many from enjoying the simple joys of life like walking, running, exercise or even playing with their children. For millions of people in India, this is a daily reality. Over 250,000 knee replacement surgeries are performed annually in the country, a number that reflects not just the increasing prevalence of knee issues but also growing awareness of the benefits of modern medical interventions. But to know if it’s time to consider knee replacement surgery requires a thorough understanding of the symptoms.

Persistent Pain That Doesn’t Quit

Knee pain can stem from various causes, from injuries to arthritis. But when that pain becomes constant, ignoring it can lead to more harm. If over-the-counter painkillers, physiotherapy, and lifestyle changes fail to bring relief, it could be a sign of something more serious. On a pain scale of 1 to 10, if your discomfort regularly scores above 6, or if it keeps you awake at night, it’s time to consider consulting an orthopedic surgeon.

Stiffness and Reduced Mobility

Stiffness in the knee can limit your ability to perform everyday tasks like standing up from a chair or walking short distances. If climbing stairs or getting in and out of a car feels like a Herculean effort, your knee joint may be deteriorating.

Visible Changes in the Knee

If you notice your knee looking misshapen or bowing inward or outward, this could indicate advanced joint damage. Deformities in the knee often develop gradually but can worsen quickly without intervention.

Swelling and Inflammation That Won’t Subside

Inflammation is your body’s natural response to injury or irritation, but persistent swelling around the knee is a red flag. When rest, ice packs, and medications fail to reduce swelling, it may indicate underlying damage to the cartilage or joint lining that needs surgical attention.

Pain That Affects Your Sleep

Knee pain isn’t just about limiting your physical activities. If it’s severe enough to disrupt your sleep, it’s affecting your overall quality of life. This type of pain often signals advanced arthritis or other chronic conditions that could require surgical intervention.

Relying on Assistive Devices

If you have started using a cane, walker, or knee brace more frequently, relying on them for day-to-day mobility might indicate that your knee’s condition has progressed beyond conservative treatment options.

Emotional Toll of Knee Pain

Living with chronic knee pain doesn’t just affect your physical health—it can also take a toll on your mental well-being. The frustration of not being able to move freely, coupled with constant discomfort, can lead to anxiety or even depression. If knee pain has started to impact your emotional health, it’s a sign that more aggressive treatment options, such as surgery, should be explored.

Rising Need for Knee Replacements

In India, the number of knee replacement surgeries has surged in recent years. Studies indicate that 73% of knee replacement patients in India are women, often because osteoporosis and post-menopausal arthritis are more common in this demographic. Despite the growing numbers, many people delay surgery due to misconceptions or fear, leading to worsening symptoms and more complicated procedures later.

When Should You Consider Surgery?

Knee replacement surgery isn’t the first line of treatment for most patients. Doctors often recommend:

• Weight management to reduce joint stress.
• Physiotherapy to strengthen surrounding muscles.
• Medications to manage inflammation and pain.

But when these methods fail and symptoms severely impact your life, surgery might be the best option. For many, the procedure offers a chance to regain independence and live pain-free.

Why Knee Replacement Surgery is Life-Changing

Knee replacement surgery is not just about fixing a joint—it’s about restoring a life. Patients report dramatic improvements in their mobility and quality of life, with over 90% success rates in India. Advanced techniques, such as robotic-assisted surgery, have made the procedure more precise, ensuring better alignment, faster recovery, and reduced pain.

For example, patients who undergo minimally invasive knee replacement often resume walking within a day and can return to normal activities within weeks. The benefits are clear, but the key is recognizing the symptoms early and seeking expert advice.

A Second Chance for Your Knees

If knee pain has begun to control your life—limiting mobility, disrupting sleep, or affecting your mental health, it’s important to act on it. Knee replacement surgery might seem daunting, but with advancements in medical technology, the procedure has become safer and more effective than ever.

For those in Chennai, Dr. Kunal Patel, a highly regarded orthopaedician, specializes in joint replacement surgeries and offers tailored treatment plans to suit each patient’s needs. With extensive experience in minimally invasive techniques and robotic-assisted surgeries, Dr. Patel is committed to helping patients regain their mobility and improve their quality of life.