Can knee replacement help you move with less pain?
Total knee replacement is a surgical treatment that may be considered when severe knee arthritis causes persistent pain, stiffness and difficulty with everyday activities.
During the procedure, the damaged surfaces at the ends of the thigh bone and shin bone are carefully prepared and resurfaced using specially designed metal components with a medical-grade plastic spacer between them.
Surgery is generally considered only after appropriate non-surgical treatments have not provided sufficient relief and knee symptoms continue to significantly affect daily life.
How is total knee replacement performed?
The procedure is performed under anaesthesia. The surgeon accesses the knee joint, removes the damaged bone and cartilage surfaces, and positions the replacement components to recreate a stable and smoothly moving joint.
The implant design and surgical plan are selected according to the condition of the knee, alignment, bone quality, ligament stability and the individual needs of the patient.
The aim is to reduce arthritis-related pain, improve stability and support better everyday function. Outcomes and recovery can vary between patients.
When may total knee replacement be considered?
A detailed orthopaedic consultation is required before deciding whether surgery is appropriate. The decision is based on symptoms, clinical examination, X-rays, response to previous treatments, general health and the impact of knee pain on daily life.
Common reasons for considering an evaluation include:
- Persistent or severe knee pain
- Pain while walking or climbing stairs
- Difficulty standing up from a chair
- Pain during rest or sleep
- Ongoing stiffness and reduced movement
- Recurrent swelling or inflammation
- Bow-legged or knock-kneed deformity
- Limited improvement with medicines, physiotherapy or injections
- Advanced joint damage visible on X-rays
What happens after knee replacement?
Patients are encouraged to begin supported movement soon after surgery under the guidance of the medical and physiotherapy teams. Walking aids may initially be required while strength, balance and confidence gradually improve.
Recovery commonly includes pain management, wound care, physiotherapy, home exercises and scheduled follow-up consultations. The time required to return to daily activities varies according to age, general health, muscle strength and individual progress.
Full recovery may take several months, and consistently following the recommended rehabilitation plan plays an important role in restoring knee movement and function.
Is total knee replacement suitable for every patient?
Total knee replacement is not automatically recommended for everyone with knee pain or arthritis. Some patients may continue to benefit from medication, physiotherapy, activity modification, injections or other non-surgical options.
A complete assessment helps determine whether the symptoms and joint damage are severe enough to justify surgery and whether the patient is medically prepared for the procedure and rehabilitation.
As with any major surgery, knee replacement carries possible risks, including infection, blood clots, stiffness, nerve or tissue injury and implant-related complications. These should be discussed clearly during the consultation before making a treatment decision.