Knees are a part of the body that are used quite often and when they fail to work or give the person a lot of pain, they can become less used and less fun for the person. By considering knee replacement in NJ with your NJ orthopedic surgeon, you’re able to get more out of the use of your knee if you have joint problems or a condition of the joint. Over 400,000 people undergo a knee replacement surgery and almost all are successful, however you may be anxious and worried about the procedure which means you need to learn a bit more about how it works and what you should expect.
The Replacement Knee
Previously, replacement knees were just hinges that were placed on the knee to provide better mobility to the user. Currently, the knee replacements that are being put in closely resemble an actual knee. They have the same mobility functions, the caps and joints that you would find in an actual knee. They are sturdy and durable and will roll and glide just like an actual knee.
Your Condition and Replacement Options
Any joint condition that you may have can be painful and cause you to not be able to do the normal, everyday activities that you once were able to do. You want to know how you can remedy this situation and get back to normal life. Total knee replacement is usually an option, but it should be used as a last resort option. You should find out what other options you have before having to go through with this surgery. The same is with any surgery. It can be lengthy and there are always risks involved, such as infection.
By working out the range of motion in your knees and being able to manage your pain, you’re able to continue to live a normal, happy life. However, if you find that the pain and motion becomes worse, a total knee replacement might be necessary. There are a few factors that are considered prior to being a good candidate for this surgery as well such as current health, age and other factors.
Alternatives to Total Knee Replacement
There are numerous alternatives that are considered prior to going through with a total replacement. Bone can be cut off of either side of the knee to create a bigger area in between for healthy cartilage growth. There are also various implants that can be placed in the sections of the knees to ensure that they are able to move easier. These implants come in different shapes and sizes and can provide comfort where it is needed.
The Knee Replacement Surgery
The knee replacement surgery itself is an invasive one which means it takes a lot of time and patience to go through with it. Not only that, but therapy is going to be needed in order to keep walking on the knee once surgery is complete. There are risks involved such as displacement of the knee, infection and possibly having to have more surgery later on.
You have to prepare for the surgery by choosing what type of anesthesia you’d like to have during the procedure; you can choose to be awake, but numb or to be put to sleep. You also are not able to drink or eat anything after midnight of the procedure. Consider speaking with your NJ orthopedic surgeon about any special instructions that they would like to go through with prior to your specific procedure.
Once the procedure is over, you will feel uncomfortable but your pain can be managed during the recovery period. Once physical therapy starts, you’re able to work through having a totally new knee and after a few months of training and exercise, you’re able to have less pain and be able to get through the day without having to stop doing the activities that you love to do.
