Knee Replacement Surgeries

Knee arthroplasty, popularly known by the name – knee replacement, is a medical procedure that is used to resurface a knee damaged by arthritis or injury. It can help relieve the pain caused by degenerative conditions like arthritis. Knee replacement surgery can be considered for people suffering from a major knee injury or severe arthritis. 

There are several variants of arthritis and these can affect the knee joint. Osteoarthritis, which is a type of degenerative joint disease, can result in the breakdown of bones and cartilage in the knee joint. Rheumatoid arthritis, which can lead to inflammation of the synovial membrane can increase the synovial fluid and can result in stiffness and pain. Traumatic arthritis, which is mainly caused by injury can lead to damage to the knee joint cartilage. 

Reasons For Knee Replacement Surgeries 

Knee replacement surgery aims at treating pain and disability in the knee. One of the typical conditions that may need knee arthroplasty is osteoarthritis. Damage to the bones and cartilage from osteoarthritis can limit movement and can result in severe pain. People suffering from severe degenerative joint conditions might not be able to do normal activities involving bending at the knees like climbing stairs or walking, as it can be painful. 

Other varieties of arthritis, like that from a knee injury or rheumatoid arthritis, can also lead to the degeneration of the joint in the knees. Also, torn cartilage, torn ligaments, fractures, etc can result in irreversible damage to the knee joint. As per the experts in low income clinics, if medical treatments are not providing any satisfactory results, knee replacement surgery may be advised. Some of the most popular treatment options for degenerative joint diseases are: 

• Chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine 
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy
• Pain medications 
• Limiting painful activities
• Making use of assistive devices for walking
• Cortisone injections into the painful joint
• Visco-supplementation injections 
• Weight loss for overweight people 

There can be many reasons for your healthcare provider to recommend knee replacement surgery. If you suffer from osteoarthritis or painful knee joints, visit a low income medical clinic in your area and discuss the same with a healthcare provider. The professional will be able to suggest to you the proper treatment plan for the condition. Also, do not forget to discuss any concerns that you have with your physician, as there can be many risk factors depending on your medical condition.