Knee replacement surgery, also known as total knee arthroplasty, is a common procedure performed on people with knee arthritis, osteoarthritis, or other knee conditions that cause chronic pain and limited mobility. These procedures are conducted by us at Vision Multispecialty Hospital by the best orthopaedic doctors in Goa. Despite its widespread use, there are still many myths and misconceptions about knee replacement surgery that can prevent people from considering this life-changing procedure. This blog seeks to dispel some of the most common myths about knee replacement surgery and provide you with the facts you need to make an informed decision about your knee health.
Myth #1: Knee replacement surgery is only for older people
Fact: Knee replacement surgery is not just for the elderly. While it is true that knee replacements are more common in people over 60 years old, this surgery can also be performed on younger patients who suffer from severe knee problems, such as arthritis, injury, or other conditions that cause chronic knee pain. In some cases, younger patients may be candidates for partial knee replacements, which are less invasive than total knee replacements and have a shorter recovery time.
Myth #2: Knee replacement surgery is a last resort
Fact: Knee replacement surgery should not be considered a last resort. Do not wait until your condition gets worse. Make sure you visit an orthopaedic doctor in Mapusa at Vision Multispecialty Hospital to get your condition assessed immediately. In fact, it is often recommended for people who have tried other treatments, such as physical therapy, medication, and injections and have not seen improvement in their knee pain or function. If your knee pain is limiting your ability to perform daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or even getting dressed, it may be time to consider knee replacement surgery.
Myth #3: Knee replacement surgery is risky
Fact: While all surgeries come with some risks, knee replacement surgery is considered to be safe and effective. The risk of complications, such as infection, blood clots, and implant failure, is low and can be managed with proper care and rehabilitation. In addition, knee replacements have a high success rate and can greatly improve a person’s quality of life by reducing knee pain and increasing mobility.
Myth #4: Knee replacement surgery is painful
Fact: Knee replacement surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so you will be asleep during the procedure and will not feel any pain. After surgery, you may experience some discomfort and pain, but this can be managed with pain medications and physical therapy. Most people report a significant reduction in knee pain after knee replacement surgery and are able to return to their normal activities within a few months.
Myth #5: Knee replacement surgery limits physical activity
Fact: Knee replacement surgery does not limit physical activity. In fact, many people who have had knee replacement surgery report improved physical activity and an increased ability to perform daily tasks. Of course, it is important to follow the guidelines given to you by the best orthopaedic doctors in Goa and the physical therapy program presented at Vision Multispecialty Hospital to ensure the best possible outcome. Over time, you should be able to resume activities that you enjoyed before your knee problems began, such as golfing, hiking, and swimming.
Myth #6: Knee replacement surgery is a permanent solution
Fact: Knee replacement surgery is a long-lasting solution, but it is not permanent. Most knee replacements last between 15 and 20 years, depending on the patient’s weight, activity level, and other factors. When a knee replacement begins to wear out, it can cause pain and decreased mobility, but a revision surgery can be performed to replace the worn-out components.
Myth #7: Knee replacement surgery is too expensive
Fact: The cost of knee replacement surgery can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of surgery, the surgeon’s fees, and the hospital’s charges. However, knee replacement surgery is often covered by insurance, and many hospitals offer financing options to help patients pay for their procedures. In the long run, knee replacement surgery can actually save you money by reducing your need for ongoing medical treatments and allowing you to return to work and other activities.
Myth #8: Knee replacement surgery requires a long recovery time
Fact: The recovery time after knee replacement surgery can vary from person to person, but most people are able to return to their normal activities within 3 to 6 months. With the help of physical therapy, you can regain strength and mobility in your knee and return to the activities you love. In some cases, patients are able to return to work within a few weeks after surgery, depending on the type of work they do.
Myth #9: Knee replacement surgery is not suitable for athletes
Fact: Knee replacement surgery can actually benefit athletes who suffer from knee pain and limited mobility. In fact, many athletes, including golfers, runners, and cyclists, have had successful knee replacement surgeries and have been able to return to their sport. Of course, it is important to follow your doctor’s guidelines and physical therapy program to ensure the best possible outcome.
Myth #10: Knee replacement surgery only addresses pain, not function
Fact: Knee replacement surgery not only reduces knee pain, but it also improves knee function. By replacing the damaged parts of your knee with artificial components, you can regain strength, stability, and mobility in your knee. This can allow you to perform daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, and even running, with less pain and more ease.
Knee replacement surgery is a safe, effective, and life-changing procedure for people with chronic knee pain and limited mobility. If you are considering knee replacement surgery, it is important to separate fact from fiction and understand the benefits and risks of the procedure. Our team of experienced orthopaedic and joint replacement surgeons at Vision Multispecialty Hospital is in Mapusa and is here to help you.
If you are experiencing knee pain or limited mobility, don’t let myths about knee replacement surgery hold you back. At Vision Multispeciality Hospital Mapusa, our team of the best orthopaedic doctors in Goa and medical professionals is dedicated to helping you get back to the activities you love. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you achieve a pain-free and active lifestyle.