Top Reasons It May Be Time for Knee Replacement Surgery
Top Reasons It May Be Time for Knee Replacement Surgery
For many patients, surgery is considered a last resort in managing several medical conditions. But joint surgery – particularly total knee replacement surgery – may produce better results by considering it sooner rather than later. Younger patients recover more quickly, and more advanced technology has made the process simpler and more long-lasting.
For example, robotic assisted surgery, available in north Alabama through DOC Orthopaedics, means shorter recovery time and more precise placement for better comfort and longer lifespan for your knee replacement.
Probably the best indication that it’s time to consider a total knee replacement is when you start to see your quality of life diminish due to knee issues. If you have one or more of these symptoms, it may be time:
When long-lasting pain isn’t getting better. If you’ve tried exercise, physical therapy, and pain medication but your pain isn’t getting better, it may be time to consider knee replacement surgery. After knee replacement surgery, pain goes away for as many as 90-95 percent of younger patients.
When arthritis is interfering with your life. If your arthritis is making it difficult for you to walk, sleep, and go to work, this may be a sign you need to think about knee replacement surgery.
When your knees are stiff and swollen. Total knee replacement surgery removes much of the damaged, inflamed tissue inside your knee that causes stiffness and swelling.
When you’ve had a knee injury. If your leg is deformed because of an injury or if you were born with a deformity, surgery may be a good option. Knee replacement surgery can repair deformed knee joints and help them work normally again.
When your knee still hurts, even when you rest. Most knee pain gets worse when you use it, but if your knee hurts even when you’re not using it, you may need to consider surgery to treat moderate or severe pain.
When one or both of your legs bow in or out. During knee replacement surgery, your surgeon will remove all or part of your knee joint and will replace damaged portions with an artificial joint. This artificial joint can correct your leg if it bows in or out.
When you want to stay physically active. Artificial knee joints can last between 15 and 25 years. If you enjoy running, skiing, or hiking but your knee pain is making it difficult to do those things, knee replacement surgery may be a good option.
Once you’re ready to consider total knee replacement surgery, consider scheduling a visit with Dr. Scott Sharp at DOC Orthopaedics. Dr. Sharp is board certified in orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine. He specializes in delivering state-of-the-art sports medicine and upper/lower extremity musculoskeletal care utilizing advanced arthroscopic surgery, minimally invasive joint replacement, and complex fracture fixation.
Dr. Sharp graduated from Mississippi State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering and worked for eight years on various NASA and defense projects as a Senior Research Engineer for Lockheed in Huntsville, AL. He received his Doctor of Medicine with honors from University of Alabama School of Medicine, did his general surgery internship at the University of Tennessee in Memphis, and completed his orthopedic residency at the internationally renowned Campbell Clinic in Memphis, TN.
Since joining DOC in 2000, Dr. Sharp has served as the Team Physician for Austin High School, Calhoun Community College and various area schools. He also has an appointment on the clinical faculty for the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine. He has served in various leadership positions including Medical Staff President at Decatur Morgan Hospital and is the President of DOC.
Dr. Sharp continues to refine his skills by keeping abreast of the latest advances in surgical and nonsurgical techniques for musculoskeletal care. His commitment to excellence, combined with over 20 years of experience, ensures you will receive the best skilled orthopedic care possible.
To set up a consultation to determine whether or not total knee replacement is right for you, please click here today.