Knee replacement surgery can be life-changing for patients suffering from severe and chronic knee pain. It is a highly advanced treatment for individuals with advanced knee arthritis. During the procedure, the orthopedic knee surgeon replaces the damaged portion of the knee joint to restore pain-free movement.
For a lot of individuals with knee pain, surgery is the only way to get back to having a normal life they love. If you are considering a knee replacement, you may be curious about the other advantages of surgery. We will discuss how knee surgery can result in pain-free living and recommend a top knee surgeon in Fort Lauderdale for a consultation.
Removal of a Damaged and Inflamed Joint
During the surgery, the damaged or deteriorated components of the knee, such as worn-out cartilage and bone spurs, are replaced with prosthetic components that function to restore proper alignment and cushioning.
By eliminating the source of friction and inflammation within the knee joint, a total knee replacement reduces the signals of pain sent to the brain, resulting in a significant decrease in pain levels experienced by the patient.
Restore Knee Range of Motion
The procedure involves replacing damaged components with artificial implants, which are designed to replicate the natural function of the knee. By removing diseased tissue and aligning the joint correctly, knee replacement surgery reduces friction and promotes smoother articulation within the joint.
This restoration of proper alignment and function enables patients to gradually regain flexibility and extension in the knee, ultimately facilitating the improvement of range of motion post-surgery.
Preserve Joint Function
In some cases, knee replacement surgery may help preserve the function of the knee joint, preventing further deterioration and delaying or avoiding the need for more extensive surgical interventions in the future.
Reduction in Opioid Medication Dependency
Following successful knee surgery, many patients find that they can rely less on pain medications to manage their symptoms, especially once they start their rehabilitation exercises. Post-operative pain is manageable without opioids, and taking just ibuprofen or acetaminophen is useful. Overall, patients can help avoid the negative side effects of medication overuse and dependency by taking medicine responsibly.
Provides Greater Independence for Patients
With improved mobility and reduced pain, knee replacement surgery patients find that they can regain the level of independence they may have lost due to knee problems. For example, it can restore their ability to walk and climb stairs or perform household tasks without the use of assistive devices.
Knee Replacement Surgery Results Can Last a Long Time
Advances in medical technology have led to the development of durable artificial knee implants that can last for many years, providing long-term relief and functionality for individuals who undergo knee replacement surgery. Knee implants can last 10 to 20 years. High-impact exercises and being overweight can speed up the wearing out of the prosthesis.
Knee Replacement Surgery Can Be a Same-Day, Outpatient Surgery
With a combination of advances in anesthesia and pain control and the use of smaller incisions, certain patients can have same-day knee replacement surgery. Usually, patients who have no major medical conditions and are of good overall health make good candidates. These patients can go home on the same day as the surgery, begin their rehabilitation sooner, and have a faster recovery from knee surgery.
Sleep Better with Improved Pain and a New Knee
Chronic knee pain is a common reason for sleep disturbances. With reduced pain, individuals may find it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. By addressing the underlying cause of knee pain through surgery, patients can experience improved sleep quality and overall restfulness.
Improved Mental and Emotional Health
Chronic and intense knee pain leads to higher stress and anxiety levels. By addressing the root cause of pain and restoring joint function, knee surgery can relieve psychological and physical distress in patients. Less pain results in improved mood and a better sense of well-being. Knee replacement patients feel more capable of participating in social events and maintaining relationships, further improving overall health and quality of life.
Top Orthopedic Knee Surgeon in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Dr. Paul Meli is a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic knee surgeon. Dr. Meli is experienced in the use of the most advanced techniques in knee surgery and is committed to a positive outcome from treatment. Our highly skilled team can do partial and total knee replacement surgery and will recommend the most appropriate treatment for you.
To determine if you are a good candidate for a knee replacement, schedule an appointment with Dr. Meli. Call (954) 324-7711 or use our online form to schedule your visit. We look forward to providing you with top-notch knee care and treatments.
