Four questions to ask before your knee replacement surgery

For individuals with severe arthritis in the knee joints, their doctor will likely suggest knee replacement surgery after they have exhausted all other alternatives such as physiotherapy and medications. Knee replacement surgery can be scary and the patient will naturally have a lot of questions about what to expect. If you’re unsure what to ask your knee replacement surgeon in a consultation, here are some of the most common questions we hear.

What is the best type of knee replacement surgery for me?

There are several options for knee replacement and it’s important that your surgeon goes through the pros and cons of each. For example, some patients may benefit from a partial knee replacement rather than a full knee replacement.

How long will the recovery take?

This is a difficult question to answer, so don’t be frustrated with vague answers. Everyone is different and some people will recover from surgery much quicker than other people. You may need specialist equipment at home to help with your mobility, so it’s best to check in advance so you and your family can make arrangements.

Is there anything I can do to help speed the healing process?

There are many things you can do ahead of surgery that will increase your chances of healing quickly and reduce the risk of complications. For example, if you have excess weight, it’s best to try to shed the extra pounds before surgery. Strengthening the muscles around your knee joint will also be beneficial. And finally, you should consider quitting smoking and make this a long-term lifestyle change.

Will I be in pain after the surgery?

After full or partial knee replacement surgery, you can expect to be in some pain. You will be provided with medication to help with the pain and the swelling after the surgery and when you are discharged. The purpose of asking this question is to determine when you should seek help or advice if the pain isn’t subsiding, as this can be a sign of complications.

The important thing to remember is that your surgeon is there to answer any questions you might have before and after the procedure. Don’t worry about asking something which seems silly, as your health is always more important. If you’re ready to take the first steps towards your life after knee replacement surgery, get in touch today!