The line for when knee replacement surgery becomes essential has shifted in recent years, as pain management and better therapies have extended the lives of our natural joints. But there comes a time in any patient’s life when she must contend with the question of knee replacement surgery – and wrestle with the pros and cons associated with each.

Total knee replacement surgery has an easier recovery period than it used to, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t work involved. Therapy, exercise, and proper management of the surgical site will still be required, so it’s worth engaging your orthopedist about what to expect moving forward. One article recently described the profile of an ideal TKR patient like this:

The major indication for joint replacement is not being able to deal with the pain anymore. The vast majority of patients after the surgery have significant pain relief and better function. The absolute key to success from this surgery is a motivated patient who works hard with physical therapy to regain range of motion and strength.

Sound like you? Get in touch with the San Diego Orthopedic Surgery Center and we can begin an evaluation right away.

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Tags: knee pain san diego, knee surgery san diego, san diego orthopedic surgeons, total knee replacement