Are You a Candidate For Knee Replacement?

Pain in any joint can be annoying, but knee pain can be especially debilitating. More than being simply inconvenient, knee pain can make it more difficult to walk, run, bend down, or comfortably perform your daily activities. In worst-case scenarios, it can even prevent you from moving altogether.

Depending on how severe your pain is, you might be wondering what options you have to resolve your situation. Although it isn’t the only way to get your life back to normal, sometimes a knee replacement is the best option to alleviate your pain and ensure that your joints are functioning at their best in the long run.

Here are a few things if you’re trying to determine whether you’re a candidate for a knee replacement San Antonio patients can trust.

Have You Received Other Treatments?

Completely replacing your knee isn’t the only way to alleviate your joint pain. Rather, in most cases, it’s only an option in the most severe situation. There are other, far less invasive treatments to consider before thinking about a knee replacement.

Even if your knee is in extreme pain, you should still consult your doctor before committing yourself to surgery like knee replacements. There are other treatments designed to address the source of your knee pain, such as injections, physical therapy, and even weight loss, all of which might help you without requiring a full-scale replacement.

If you’ve already received some of these other treatments and are still suffering from unbearable joint pain, then you might want to speak with your doctor about the possibility of a replacement.

How Often Does Your Knee Hurt?

Knee replacements are typically reserved for the most traumatic injuries and infections. If your knee only hurts when you’re moving it, such as when you’re walking or bending, then other procedures might help make your joints feel better.

However, if your pain is present even when you’re at rest or not putting too much pressure on your knee, then a knee replacement might be necessary. Persistent pain means that there are deep issues in your joint that might not be able to be healed by less invasive treatments and need to be completely replaced.

If you notice that your knee hurts even when you’re sitting down, lying in bed, or not being active, then you should get professional medical advice about whether a knee replacement is right for you.

How Much Does Your Knee Hurt?

Many people are able to live with joint issues. Even those suffering from arthritis might be able to continue with their daily activities, even if they’re in pain. Such conditions are typically best treated with measures such as weight loss, injections, and medications.

In some cases, however, knee pain can completely debilitate you. Do you have trouble doing something as simple as walking down the street, bending to pick something up off the floor, or climbing up the stairs? If your knee pain prevents you from such fundamental activities, then you may be a candidate for a knee replacement. If you are experiencing any of the problems just outlined, make sure to talk to a medical expert to get the help you need.

How Stable Is Your Knee?

Are you able to stand up straight without worrying that your knee is going to give out? Or do you constantly worry that your leg is unstable and will leave you to tumble over at any moment? If you find yourself in the latter situation and other procedures haven’t worked for you, then the muscular tissue in your joint might need to be replaced altogether.

In such a serious situation, take time to talk to a doctor to determine whether you need to prepare for a knee replacement surgery.

Knee Replacement San Antonio Depends On

If you suspect that you might need a knee replacement, then rest assured that getting your knee replaced doesn’t have to be as scary as it may sound. Rather, in the hands of a trained professional, it can be a smooth and harmless process that can help get you on the right track for the future.

At Joint Pain Orthopedic, our staff of caring and knowledgeable medical experts can guide you through the whole process of determining the appropriate treatment for your situation and getting you the help you need. Led by the expert Dr. Jimenez, our expertise in all kinds of joint pain can help you get your life back on track.

Schedule an Appointment at Joint Pain Orthopedic Today

If you have any concerns about your joints, contact us and we can help determine a treatment that works for you.