Signs That You May Need
a Knee Replacement

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A knee replacement, or arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure to relieve pain and restore function in severely diseased knee joints. It is generally considered the last resort. So, when should one consider this option? This article highlights common warning signs that you might need a knee replacement.

By Arete Orthopaedic Centre
Medically Reviewed by Dr Wang Lushun

When Is a Knee Replacement Needed?

Here are some signs that indicate that a knee replacement might be on the horizon:

Persistent Pain Despite Conservative Treatment: Even after undergoing physiotherapy, taking prescription medications, and making necessary lifestyle adjustments, your knee pain persists.
Severe Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are common culprits behind the degradation of knee joints, severe pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility among older adults.
Visible Deformity: A noticeable deformity in the knee, either bowing inwards or outwards, may indicate advanced joint damage or disease that warrants a knee replacement.
Sleep Disruption Due to Pain: When the knee pain is so severe that it interrupts your sleep or makes it difficult to be comfortable even at rest.
Age Considerations: Older adults often experience a gradual decrease in the effectiveness of less invasive treatments due to the progressive nature of joint degradation and wear and tear.

Benefits of Knee Replacement

Undergoing a knee replacement procedure can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with severe knee problems. Key benefits include:

Pain Relief: The main benefit of knee replacement surgery is the significantly reduced or eliminated knee pain, allowing individuals to return to their daily activities with ease.
Improved Mobility: Patients often experience a significant improvement in mobility after surgery. They can now walk, climb stairs, and perform other movements comfortably.
Increased Activity Level: These patients can now engage in activities that they previously found difficult or impossible, including recreational activities, exercise, and daily tasks.
Correction of Deformity: A knee replacement can effectively correct deformities by aligning the components of the knee and leg properly, thereby improving its appearance and function.
Long-lasting Solution: Knee replacements are designed to last for a long time – at least 15 to 20 years, offering a life-changing opportunity for a greatly improved quality of life.

Dr Wang Lushun

Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edin), MMed (Ortho), FRCS (Ortho) (Edin)

Dr Wang is a Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with over 18 years of experience specialising in the treatment of knee conditions, which includes the use of knee replacement surgery. Dr Wang trained extensively in the UK, France and Singapore; and previously led the Hip and Knee Division at Ng Teng Fong Hospital. He is also skilled in the use of robotic systems in treating complex hip and knee conditions that provide higher precision and smaller incisions.