Reclaim Your Life: Knee Replacement and Getting Back to What You Love

Knee pain can take a heavy toll on your confidence and freedom of movement. If each step brings you discomfort or everyday tasks like walking the dog or getting out of bed feel out of reach, your knee pain may be significantly impacting your quality of life.

Fortunately, modern knee replacement procedures offer a way forward. With advanced surgical techniques, improved implant designs and personalized recovery plans, patients can return to daily life with greater confidence and mobility. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to explore long-term treatments for knee pain, this guide will help you understand what knee replacement involves and what it could mean for your future.

What Is Knee Replacement?

Knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that restores function and relieves pain by replacing the damaged portions of the knee joint with state-of-the-art implants typically made of medical-grade metal and plastic. This procedure addresses the underlying issues that limit movement. It also eases pain and allows you to return to life’s most important moments and activities.

Types of Knee Replacement Surgery

Your orthopedic specialist may consider several types of surgical treatments for knee pain based on your condition. The most common include:

• Total knee replacement: This is the most common knee surgery. It involves replacing all three compartments of the knee — medial, lateral and patellofemoral — with artificial components. Specialists typically recommend this treatment for severe osteoarthritis or widespread joint damage.
• Partial knee replacement: This minimally invasive option is ideal for those with damage limited to one knee compartment. Its advantages include smaller incisions, quicker recovery and less post-operative discomfort.
• Patellofemoral knee replacement: This technique targets only the area between the kneecap and thighbone. It’s commonly performed when osteoarthritis is limited to the front of the knee.

Each option has its benefits and considerations. Your orthopedic surgeon will evaluate your condition thoroughly to determine the best course of action.

Common Causes of Knee Pain

If you’re dealing with knee pain, it’s essential to identify its source and understand when to seek professional care. The knee is a complex joint, and pain can stem from various issues, including:

• Osteoarthritis: A common degenerative condition where joint cartilage wears away over time, leaving bones to rub against each other. Osteoarthritis typically develops gradually, often due to age, repetitive activities or previous injuries.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disorder causing inflammation and damage to the synovial membrane, resulting in pain, swelling and restricted movement.
• Injury or trauma: Past injuries such as fractures, ligament tears, dislocations or cartilage damage often lead to long-term joint issues and discomfort.

Other factors, such as increased body weight, repetitive overuse, joint infection or connective tissue disorders, can also contribute to knee problems.

Signs It Is Time to See a Specialist

Occasional knee pain may be common, but some symptoms indicate you should seek professional medical advice, including:

• Persistent or worsening pain, even at rest.
• Swelling, stiffness or visible deformity, such as bowing of the knee.
• Difficulty performing everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs or getting up from a chair.
• Loss of function or range of motion that limits your independence.
• When medications, injections, physical therapy and other treatments for knee pain are no longer effective.

Initially, you might manage your knee pain through conservative approaches like physical therapy, medication, weight management or injections. However, these remedies might not always provide adequate relief. If you’ve tried multiple treatments for knee pain without noticeable improvement, knee replacement surgery might be the solution.

Preparing for a Knee Replacement Surgery

Proper preparation is essential to the overall success of your knee replacement procedure. Some of the key preoperative steps you can take include:

• Stop smoking and adopt a balanced diet to promote healing.
• Meet with a physical therapist to learn strengthening exercises for muscles around the knee.
• Discuss all medications and supplements with your surgeon.
• Plan for support at home, including help with daily activities during the initial recovery.
• Prepare your living space by installing safety rails, removing tripping hazards and creating a comfortable area for rest.
• Complete any dental or necessary medical evaluations to reduce infection risk.
• Discontinue certain medications or supplements as advised.

Nutrition, hydration and rest are also important. If you have diabetes, heart conditions or other health concerns, your physician may collaborate with specialists to optimize your health before surgery. Most importantly, discuss any questions or concerns with your surgeon. 

What to Expect During a Knee Replacement

Understanding the surgical process helps set clear expectations and reduce anxiety. A typical procedure involves:

1. Regional anesthesia with sedation, so you are comfortable but not fully asleep.
2. An incision over the knee to access the joint.
3. Removal of damaged cartilage and bone surfaces.
4. Insertion of precise implants that mimic the shape and function of a natural knee.
5. Placement of a plastic spacer between the implants to ensure smooth movement.
6. Careful closure of the incision, followed by a sterile dressing.

Most knee replacements take one to two hours. After surgery, your care providers will monitor you in a recovery area. Many patients can begin gentle movement the same day with the support of a walker or crutches. Most people return home within one to two days, though this can vary based on your needs and progress.

Pain Management After Knee Surgery

Effective pain control supports healing and progress in physical therapy. Most orthopedic teams use a multimodal pain management plan that includes nerve blocks, local anesthetics, non-opioid medications and short-term use of prescription pain relievers when necessary. Swelling and soreness are common in the days following surgery, especially as you begin to move more. Using ice packs, elevating your leg and wearing compression devices can help reduce these symptoms. Your care team will show you how to position your leg and move safely.

Tips for Quick Recovery After a Knee Replacement

Consistency and adhering to best practices are essential to quick and complete recovery. Here are some tips to help you accelerate your return to daily life: 

• Follow your physical therapy and home exercise program consistently to restore strength and flexibility.
• Use assistive devices like a walker or cane as directed until strength and balance return.
• Keep the incision clean and dry according to your provider’s instructions.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in protein and nutrients.
• Avoid high-impact or twisting activities until cleared by your surgeon.
• Stay in close contact with your orthopedic team for ongoing guidance.

You’ll likely return to most normal activities within six to 12 weeks. Depending on your progress, you may resume activities like driving, working and low-impact exercise even sooner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about knee replacements with these common questions:

• What are the potential risks of knee replacement? Possible risks include blood clots, infection, nerve or blood vessel injury, stiffness, implant wear over time or rare allergic reactions. These risks are uncommon, and your surgical team will discuss preventive steps and how to address potential complications. Choosing an experienced orthopedic team minimizes these risks and helps support a smooth recovery.
• Can medications affect the outcome of knee replacement? Yes. Some medications, including blood thinners and supplements, may need to be adjusted before surgery. Always inform your care team about everything you take to avoid complications.
• How long do knee implants last? With proper care and regular follow-up, most modern knee implants last at least 20 to 30 years.

Schedule a Consultation With Houston’s Most Trusted Orthopedic Specialists

If chronic knee pain is interfering with your quality of life, it may be time to consider long-term solutions. As Houston’s leading private orthopedic care providers, Fondren Orthopedic Group brings together board-certified, sub-specialized surgeons who deliver state-of-the-art, patient-centered care across multiple locations.

Whether you’re exploring partial or total knee replacement, you’ll benefit from advanced technology, evidence-based treatment plans and a collaborative team that takes time to understand your goals. We support you every step of the way, from evaluation to rehabilitation, with online access, flexible scheduling and insurance coordination. Schedule an appointment today to learn how we can help you return to the activities and routines that matter most.