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Knee replacement surgery involves replacing part or all of a knee joint that is worn out or diseased with an artificial joint called a prosthesis. Knee replacement procedures are incredibly beneficial for those experiencing unrelenting knee pain or who are living with disabilities. Though knee replacement has proven to be an effective treatment option, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding it. Here are some of the most common ones:

• Knee replacement surgeries have a low success rate

  The truth: The vast majority of people who undergo this procedure are able to perform their daily routines comfortably and pain-free. Knee replacement surgeries have a 95% success rate.

• Bending your knees or sitting on the floor is made difficult after the procedure

  The truth: This common misconception that your knee joints will be rendered permanently stiff post-surgery simply is not true. This is largely dependent on the quality of the surgery, the prosthetic that is used, and the quality of rehabilitation afterward. Many replacement knees allow for a full range of motion.

• Knee replacement is only good for 10 years

  The truth: Though this may have been true at some point, the quality of prosthetics and surgical methods mean that a knee replacement lasts for life now.

• Recovery takes many months

  The truth: With a quality prosthetic and surgical procedure, most people are able to return to their routine activities within a few weeks of their surgery.

• Driving after a knee replacement is impossible

  The truth: The opposite is true here, as your restored knee function will make driving safely and comfortably significantly easier. Most are able to return to driving within 6-8 weeks of their surgery.

• Surgery after the age of 65 is not possible

  The truth: Age is not a limiting factor for knee replacement surgery. As long as you are in good overall health, a surgical procedure after the age of 65 is not an issue. Cartilage in the knee often begins to break down around this age, making it a good opportunity to restore your quality of life.

As always at Orthopaedic Associates of St. Augustine, we’re proud to play a role in helping people regain mobility and get back into the action without pain. If you’ve undergone a total joint replacement and are experiencing joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, please request an appointment online or give us a call at 904-825-0540.

Paul Roettges, MD
A member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the American Association of Knee and Hip Surgeries, Dr. Roettges performs hip and knee replacements as well as complex unresolved hip and knee pain.