Knee arthritis is the inflammation or deterioration of the connective tissues (cartilage) surrounding the knee joint. While arthritis can affect numerous body areas, studies have found that the knee is the most commonly affected joint, affecting 365 million people worldwide.

While many steps can be taken to reduce the symptoms or pain associated with knee arthritis, such as wearing a brace or maintaining a healthy weight, surgical intervention can also help.

Causes and Types of Knee Arthritis

There are three primary types of knee arthritis:

Osteoarthritis: Knee osteoarthritis is characterized by the progressive loss of cartilage surrounding the knee joint.
Rheumatoid arthritis: Knee rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by cartilage inflammation surrounding the knee joint.
Post-traumatic arthritis: Post-traumatic arthritis accounts for between 10-12% of arthritis diagnoses and is triggered by damage or injury to the knee.

There are many different causes of knee arthritis, including:

Aging: Because conditions such as osteoarthritis are caused by wear-and-tear of cartilage, aging is often a contributory factor.
Inflammatory conditions: Inflammatory conditions, such as gout, Lyme disease, and ankylosing spondylitis, can trigger the onset of arthritis.
Weight: Individuals who are overweight are more likely to develop knee arthritis due to the added pressure on their bones and joints.

Knee arthritis can be challenging to live with if not managed appropriately. It can lead to stiffness and discomfort, which makes it difficult for affected individuals to continue life as usual. While there’s no direct cure for arthritis, numerous treatment options are available to help manage the symptoms associated with this condition.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Knee Arthritis

There are many different non-surgical treatment options for individuals with knee arthritis, many of which are built around following a healthy lifestyle. For example, exercising more frequently and shifting to a more nutritious diet can be helpful, mainly when they facilitate healthy weight loss.

Other non-surgical treatment options include:

Physical therapy and TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
Medication, injections, and natural supplements
Holistic therapies, such as acupuncture and chiropractic care
Assistive devices, such as canes and walkers
Hot/cold therapy

When to Consider Surgery for Knee Arthritis

Knee surgery, such as a knee replacement, is sometimes necessary to treat or manage knee arthritis. This route is often suggested for those dealing with continually high levels of pain and discomfort or a significant loss of mobility.

Compared to non-surgical interventions, patients who undergo knee surgery tend to experience greater comfort and higher levels of mobility. They are also more likely to notice an improved quality of life post-surgery.

Types of Knee Surgery for Arthritis

A few different types of knee surgeries can be used to treat arthritis.

Arthroscopy: Arthroscopy is a keyhole surgery used to remove damaged cartilage and repair damaged ligaments.
Partial knee replacement: During a partial knee replacement, the damaged tissue or bone (which triggers arthritis) is removed and replaced with a prosthetic.
Total knee replacement: During a total knee replacement, a prosthetic knee entirely replaces the original joint, which can reduce arthritis complications.

Preparing for Knee Surgery

If you are considering knee surgery, being aware of the process in advance can help you feel more confident in your decision or reduce any anxieties you may face.

Before the procedure

Before any kind of surgical intervention, you’ll have to meet with the team in charge of your care, who will carry out several pre-op assessments. In addition to discussing your medical history and general health, these tests will ensure the best care possible for your circumstances. Your surgeon will also share the mental and physical steps you can take to prepare for surgery.

Surgery day

On the day of your operation, your surgeon will explain the procedure to you and remind you what to expect. Most knee replacements are outpatient procedures that won’t require an overnight stay unless your surgeon specifically recommends it.

Recovery

While many factors can influence your recovery from a knee operation, most people can return to daily activities between six weeks and six months after the operation. However, you must follow your surgeon’s advice regarding knee replacement recovery. For example, you may be advised to gradually reintroduce exercise into your routine to avoid putting too much pressure on your knee or joints.

Risks and Complications

Knee surgery is generally considered safe. However, as with any form of medical treatment, there are some risks associated with this procedure. Common complications include blood clots, implantation failure, and nerve damage. Signs of potential complications include persistent pain, swelling, fever, and numbness in the affected area.

Schedule a Consultation

There are many benefits associated with knee surgery if you are dealing with the debilitating symptoms of arthritis in this joint. After all, prolonged pain and discomfort can impact everything from mobility to mental well-being.

Fortunately, many options are available. Whether you are interested in a partial or total knee replacement, Altenburg Joint Replacement can help. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a consultation.

17 Jul 2024

Knee

Knee Surgery for Arthritis: What You Need to Know