You’ve tried crutches. You’ve tried physical therapy. You’ve tried analgesics every four to six hours. No matter how hard you try, your knee still hurts, and now you’re starting to lose mobility. At Plymouth Bay Orthopedic Associates, we offer a safe, effective, permanent solution to your damaged knee. Today, we’re telling you some helpful things to know about total knee replacement.
What is a Total Knee Replacement?
When your knee joint becomes diseased or otherwise significantly damaged, a total knee replacement is often required. A total knee replacement involves replacing damaged material with artificial material. There are some general basic steps involved with this procedure.
What to Expect
First, we’ll prepare the bone by removing the surface of the damaged cartilage and a bit of underlying bone at the ends of the tibia and femur. Second, we’ll carefully align the metal implants that will replace the removed cartilage and bone and become the new joint surface. These components may be “press-fit” or cemented into the bone.
The next step depends on your unique case. If necessary, we will resurface your patella, or kneecap. We’ll cut the undersurface and resurface it with a plastic button. The final step in total knee replacement is inserting a medical-grade plastic spacer. This creates a smooth gliding surface between your femoral component and tibial component.
Is a Knee Replacement Right for Me?
If you have a deformity of the knee, such as a knee that bows in or out, total knee replacement can most likely help you. Similarly, knee replacement may be the best option for you if you have moderate-to-severe pain when at rest. Knee replacement is a very good option for people who have chronic knee inflammation that is resistant to medications and rest.
You may also find total knee replacement beneficial if you can’t walk more than a few blocks without significant pain or you need the help of a cane or walker to walk. Knee replacement is often the ideal solution for people who can’t complete daily activities, like getting in and out of chairs or walking up a flight of stairs. If your mobility hasn’t improved following physical therapy and other treatments, such as corticosteroid injections, you may be the ideal candidate for knee replacement.
A good candidate for knee replacement has tried several treatment methods to ease pain and restore mobility without success. Unlike many procedures, there are no age or weight restrictions when it comes to recommending knee replacement.
When you come in for your initial consultation at Plymouth Bay Orthopedic Associates, we’ll discuss your pain and disability to determine if you’re a good candidate for this procedure. Sometimes, medication, walking supports and rest aren’t enough to rehabilitate your knees, and that’s okay. Turn to our experts in Plymouth or Sandwich when you need help. Contact us today to book your appointment!