Doctors usually recommend it when:
Severe osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis causes chronic pain
Pain limits everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or standing
Non-surgical treatments (meds, injections, therapy) no longer help
There’s significant joint deformity or instability
You’ve had trauma or ligament damage that’s beyond repair
🛠️ Types of Knee Replacement
Total Knee Replacement (TKR)
Replaces all three compartments of the knee (most common)Partial Knee Replacement (PKR)
Only the damaged part of the knee is replaced (for localized damage)Revision Knee Replacement
A repeat surgery if the first replacement wears out or fails
🏥 What Happens During Surgery?
Performed under general or spinal anesthesia
Damaged cartilage and bone are removed
Metal and plastic implants are used to cap the ends of the bones
Takes 1–2 hours, with a hospital stay of 1–3 days
⏱️ Recovery Timeline
0–2 weeks: Use of walker or crutches, pain managed with meds
2–6 weeks: Physical therapy to restore movement
6–12 weeks: Resume most daily activities
3–6 months: Full recovery for many people
Up to 1 year: Complete healing and strength return
