Treating Your Knee Pain For Good
Occasional knee pain and discomfort happens to everyone. But for millions of Americans, knee pain is chronic and often due to a chronic condition. Most cases are linked to osteoarthritis, where the cartilage gets worn away over time. As a result, the bones knock each other during movement, which could be painful. Others have rheumatoid arthritis, with the immune system causing inflammation by attacking the joints. Whatever the cause, more than 600,000 people consider outpatient total knee replacement every year.
The benefits of outpatient surgery
So why are more people considering total knee replacement? Today, getting surgery is easier than ever. In the past, most knee procedures were open surgery, requiring large incisions and long recovery times. Now with minimally invasive tools and techniques, most arthritis patients can have outpatient surgery. Using small incisions, the surgeon can access the joint to remove damaged cartilage and bone. From there, prosthetic parts can be installed. Outpatient surgery is faster, safer, and more effective. Even with these changes, some patients are unsure about surgery. Here are 3 reasons to opt for a knee replacement.
1. Medication and other treatment no longer help
When a patient receives an arthritis diagnosis, treatment starts right away. The doctor will recommend pain medication, notably NSAIDs, along with physical therapy. These methods are effective in many cases. If the pain worsens, there are other steps like opioids, steroid injections, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, and more. If all these non-surgical methods fail, even after months of effort, surgery may help.
2. Your quality of life has been seriously impacted
Without a doubt, arthritic knees can be painful. The conservative treatment method mentioned is often enough to help patients move around, bend, and lift objects safely. But some arthritis cases are so bad, the quality of life declines. For instance, standing, walking, working, and self-care feel nearly impossible. Swift action through surgery is necessary if arthritis reaches this point.
3. Your overall health is declining
Over time, knee pain and arthritis can affect the body in other ways. Many people inadvertently adopt a sedentary lifestyle. Not moving for hours on end can lead to chronic diseases like diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and much more. Constant knee problems could even cause depression due to being unable to live everyday life. Fixing the root cause through surgery can help to turn life around.
It’s time to take action
Most arthritis patients agree that knee pain can be stressful, uncomfortable, and an obstacle to enjoying life. Yes, conservative methods are effective. However, these can only work for so long. Over time, some patients need a long-term solution, and waiting too long can worsen symptoms. Outpatient total knee replacement can bring a fresh outlook on life. Speak with an orthopedic surgeon or joint specialist and take the first step to a better knee.
