Knee Replacement – Why look for Alternatives?

A previous article presented some of the reasons as to why people suffering from arthritis and other problems, may want to have knee replacement surgery. The article discussed how senior healthcare focuses on mobility, quality of life and feeling productive, and how knee replacement surgery can help to that purpose.

Many seniors suffer from arthritis. Almost 50% of people aged 65 and older experience some type of arthritis pain. Feelings of stiffness, aching and swelling characterize osteoarthritis, the most common source of pain in the joints for over 50’s. Pain in the morning and minor stiffness are a feature of osteoarthritis; when the sufferer begins to move the pain improves, but being very active tends to bring it back.

Some Ramifications of Knee Replacement Surgery

It goes without saying that every individual must follow their own doctor’s advice. This article presents some of the things a person may expect to experience following, or complications of, knee replacement surgery:

  • A threat of thrombosis, usually in the deep veins of the leg (known as DVT, deep vein thrombosis).
  • Infection following surgery.
  • The knee becomes stiff and does not bend and straighten properly, in spite of physical therapy.
  • The replacement parts of the knee wear out before the expected 15-20 years that it is hoped that they will last for resulting in pain even years after the surgery took place.
  • For all the benefits surgery brings, it is reported that one in ten people need repeat surgery.
  • Many people who have done the surgery report clicking noises made by the replacement parts of the knee.
  • There are those who have had the surgery who say that they do not like how it feels when they kneel.
  • Some, airports will want to give a pat-down check if the metal detector starts to whistle.
  • All replacement patients have to watch how much they lift, no more than 20 pounds, and no jerking of the leg either, turning around has to be done in small steps.

Every surgery has its risks. We can point out that the AAOS says that out of the 600,000 knee replacement procedures carried out annually, less than 2% of patients experience serious complications.

A Healthy Lifestyle – Whether or Not Surgery is Chosen

People who choose to do the surgery probably do so in order to increase their mobility and quality of life. All seniors should invest in good habits leading to these three important goals:

  1. Maintaining a healthy weight
  2. Keeping to recommended methods to stay active
  3. Physical therapy and therapy exercises

Whether the risks outweigh the benefits or the opposite, will probably be an individual thing, different for each person, therefore each person should do their own research and follow their doctor’ advice.

Whatever you have chosen, we hope it goes well for you and you enjoy being active for many more years!

 

A man and his dog on a surfside

A senior and old faithful are enjoying themselves, surfing, or rather, gliding along in the water.

 

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