If you’re struggling with persistent knee pain that makes it hard to walk, climb stairs, or enjoy life’s simple pleasures, you’re not alone. Knee issues, especially those caused by arthritis, can severely affect your mobility and quality of life. While nobody wants to face surgery lightly, knee replacement surgery (arthroplasty) could be the life-changing solution you need. At Orthocare Multispeciality Hospital, we’ve helped countless patients regain mobility and comfort through advanced orthopaedic care.
This guide will help you understand knee replacement surgery in simple, clear terms, weighing the benefits and risks so you can make an informed decision.
Knee replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged parts of your knee joint with metal and plastic components. These artificial implants are carefully designed to mimic the natural structure and movement of your joint. This procedure is typically recommended when other treatments—like physical therapy, medication, or injections—fail to ease severe knee pain caused by advanced arthritis or injury.
At Orthocare specialty in Bulandshahr, specialists consider your overall health, activity levels, and treatment goals before recommending surgery, ensuring the approach matches your unique needs.
To understand why knee replacement might be needed, it helps to know a bit about knee anatomy. The knee is a complex joint with three key compartments—medial (inner knee), lateral (outer knee), and patellofemoral (kneecap area). Cartilage cushions these compartments, preventing bones from rubbing against each other. Over time, or due to injury, this cartilage can wear down.
Common causes of knee damage include:
Osteoarthritis: Wear-and-tear arthritis that comes with age or overuse.
Inflammatory arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis cause the immune system to attack joint tissues.
Post-traumatic arthritis: Damage from an injury or fracture can worsen over time.
You might consider knee replacement if you experience these persistent symptoms despite non-surgical treatments like physical therapy or anti-inflammatory medications:
Chronic pain that limits everyday activities such as walking or climbing stairs.
Knee stiffness, especially in the mornings.
Swelling or warmth around the knee joint.
Difficulty standing up from a seated position or decreased range of motion in the knee.
Before jumping into surgery, many patients explore non-surgical treatments. Options include physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility, activity modification (like switching to swimming or cycling), and medications such as NSAIDs. Emerging treatments, like nerve-targeted therapies, can also help reduce symptoms temporarily. However, these approaches may not work for everyone, especially in severe cases.
If you’ve tried these options without relief, your next step might involve consulting an experienced orthopaedic surgeon at Orthocare Multispeciality Hospital to discuss whether knee replacement makes sense for you.
Orthopaedic technology has come a long way, offering several types of knee replacement procedures depending on the extent of joint damage.
Total Knee Replacement (TKR): This replaces all three compartments of the knee and is best for widespread arthritis. Though recovery might take longer, the results are often lasting.
Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): If only one compartment is damaged, this less invasive option could work. However, there’s a higher likelihood you might require further surgery if arthritis spreads to other parts of the knee.
Minimally-Invasive Surgery: With smaller incisions and less muscle damage, these techniques speed up early recovery. State-of-the-art computer-assisted methods can also improve implant alignment for better long-term outcomes.
At Orthocare specialty in Bulandshahr, we utilise advanced techniques that prioritise quicker recovery with minimal discomfort.
Knee replacement offers significant advantages, including relief from pain, improved mobility, and enhanced quality of life. For most individuals, life with a replaced knee means enjoying low-impact activities such as walking, cycling, or even golfing. On average, modern implants last 15 to 25 years, giving most patients decades of restored function.
Like any surgery, knee replacement carries certain risks. Complications can include infections, blood clots, or implant failure over time, especially for younger or highly active patients. Recovery also demands patience—it can take three months to a year of physical therapy to regain full function.
While 90% or more patients report excellent pain relief, some individuals experience residual stiffness or limitations, such as difficulty kneeling or engaging in high-impact sports like running.
That said, choosing a skilled surgical team—like the one at Orthocare Multispeciality Hospital—minimises these risks and ensures smooth post-operative care.
Preparation greatly influences the success of knee replacement. Pre-surgical physical therapy (often called “prehab”) helps strengthen your muscles before the procedure. You may also need to arrange your home for a safe recovery—such as adding grab bars, clearing clutter, or having someone assist you with daily tasks temporarily.
On the day of surgery, you’ll typically receive spinal or general anaesthesia. Your surgeon Dr. Anil Singhal will remove the damaged bone and cartilage, place the new joint implant, and ensure it fits properly. With advancements in techniques, most patients can start walking within 24–48 hours of their operation.
Post-surgery recovery includes regular follow-ups and a rigorous physical therapy regimen to regain mobility and strength. While recovery may seem daunting, staying committed ensures the best outcomes. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle—through balanced nutrition, low-impact exercises like swimming, and weight management—is another key to protect your new knee joint.
If knee pain is severely affecting your quality of life and daily activities, and non-surgical options haven’t worked, it’s time to explore surgery. Don’t hesitate to consult our Orthocare specialists to align the timing with your lifestyle and health.
Is there an age limit for knee replacement surgery?
No, there’s no strict age limit. While surgery is more common in people aged 50–80, younger and older patients may also be candidates based on their health and severity of symptoms.
Can both knees be replaced at the same time?
Yes, bilateral knee replacement is an option. However, it may be better for younger or healthier patients as recovery demands more stamina.
What type of anaesthesia is used?
Knee replacement can be performed under general anaesthesia or regional anaesthesia (spinal or epidural), depending on your medical condition and preference.
Will artificial knee joints set off metal detectors?
Yes, the metal in implants may trigger security systems at airports. It’s useful to carry your surgical card or documentation when travelling.
Can I kneel or squat after surgery?
While many patients regain good mobility, kneeling or squatting might feel uncomfortable due to stiffness or sensation around the new knee joint.
Knee replacement surgery can feel like a big step, but for many, it’s the solution that brings back freedom and mobility. At Orthocare Multispeciality Hospital, we take pride in delivering compassionate care. You don’t have to live in pain—our experts are here to guide you every step of the way.
Take control of your knee health. Schedule an appointment with the experts at Orthocare Multispeciality Hospital to learn how we can help improve your life. Don’t let pain define you—get the care you deserve today.
Orthopedic Surgeon and Consultant