Good Healthcare Requires Treatment of Your Mind, Body, and Soul

What Is The Truth About Knee Replacement Surgery?

18 July 2017 by Hugh Larson

Thousands of people undergo knee replacement surgery each year. Other people who could benefit from the procedure put it off because of myths they have heard about it. If you are hesitant to have knee replacement surgery due to misconceptions, here is the truth about some of those inaccuracies.

Only Elderly People Need Knee Replacement

Gray hairs are not the only sign of aging that send people into a panic. The need for surgery is sometimes seen as a reminder that a person is growing older. Although the chances of needing a surgery, such as a knee replacement, might increase with age, it is not necessarily a procedure that is just for elderly people.

Age-related wear and tear can lead to the need for a knee replacement. However, other situations, such as a sports injury or trauma, can lead to a recommendation for the surgery. The condition of your knee—and not necessarily your age—dictates whether knee replacement is necessary.

The Recovery Period Is Months Long

Some people fear having knee replacement surgery because they think the procedure will leave them immobilized for several months. They are also concerned that they will have to rely on others during that recovery period.

The truth is that although the recovery period can take a few months, your doctor will likely push for you to start walking around on the same day as the procedure. You will have to use a cane or walker, but within a few weeks, you could be free from the walking aid.

The Procedure Can Only Be Performed on One Knee at a Time

In some circumstances, both knees might require replacement. Doing both knees at once can be scary and could seem dangerous to patients who do not understand the procedure. However, it is possible to perform the knee replacement on both knees at the same time. In fact, it could be beneficial to you.

You might have to spend an additional day in the hospital, but you will still be up on your feet within a matter of days. You also have the added benefit of getting the procedure completely out of the way, which means you do not have to worry about returning to the hospital in the future.

Talk to your orthopedist about any other concerns you have regarding the knee replacement surgery. He or she can provide the truth about misconceptions and help explore alternative treatments, if necessary.

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