Signs You Need a Total Knee Replacement

If you’re noticing new, persistent pain in your knee and it’s preventing you from enjoying activities that used to be easy for you, there may be a bigger problem than just soreness. Knee pain can have many causes, but if the discomfort is severe or long-lasting, even with rest or treatment, total knee replacement (TKR) may be needed.

Here we will lay out some common signs that indicate your knee needs the help of an orthopedic surgeon to get back into working order!

1. Your joint is stiff, and the range of motion is limited

The natural cushioning between the bones in our joints can wear down over time due to conditions such as arthritis or injury. When this cushion is gone, movement becomes more complex and painful, leading to a limited range of motion. A total knee replacement can help restore function and quality of life by replacing the worn-out joint with an artificial one.

If you’re experiencing stiffness around the affected joint in addition to:

• Swelling
• Pain
• Deformity

Then it’s worth consulting with a doctor about whether a total knee replacement could be beneficial. Your doctor may recommend other treatments, such as physical therapy or over-the-counter medications. Still, if they fail to improve your condition, then it’s time to consider a total knee replacement.

2. Swelling and inflammation are present along with visible deformity

Swelling and inflammation occur when the cartilage in your knee joint starts to deteriorate, which leads to instability and discomfort. Additionally, if your knee is visibly deformed due to arthritis or other conditions, it may also indicate that a total knee replacement would be beneficial.

Talking with your doctor if you are experiencing any of these signs is important. They can help you determine the best course of action.

3. You experience persistent pain that worsens over time

If you’re still experiencing knee pain after trying various treatments, consider a total knee replacement. Pain that persists and worsens over time usually indicates that the damage in your joint is beyond what non-invasive or conservative treatments can repair.

With a total knee replacement, you’ll get long-lasting relief from chronic pain and enjoy improved mobility with an increased range of motion. Talk to your doctor about whether this procedure is right for you.

4. You notice popping and grinding noises in the knee joint

If you notice popping and grinding noises when your knee moves, it could indicate that you need a total knee replacement. The noises may be accompanied by pain or discomfort in the joint.

You might also experience weakness or instability in the knee, making it difficult to move normally. These symptoms often worsen over time and can indicate that the cartilage in the joint has deteriorated significantly, leading to bone-on-bone contact.

We’re here to help you get your life back with Teton’s total knee replacement.

If you are experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, we at Teton Outpatient Services would like to help you. A total knee replacement can help alleviate pain, return mobility, and give you back your life.

Don’t let your affected knee stop you from doing what you want and living life to the fullest. Schedule a consultation with one of our physicians today, and we’ll be happy to provide our expertise for your existing condition.