Related Posts

• What's the Difference Between Total Knee and Partial Knee Replacement?

  

  By: Dr. Pitts

  
  

  The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality reports that over 600,000 knee replacements are performed in the U.S. each year. (AAOS) While partial knee replacements and total knee replacements may seem near-identical, the comparison is more ‘apples to oranges’. There are three main compartments of a knee:

  • The lateral component - The outside region of the knee, which is where the lateral cruciate ligament, or LCL as it’s often referred to, is located.

  • The medial component - The inside region of the knee where the medial cruciate ligament (MCL) is located.

  • The patellofemoral component - Located at the front of the knee, including the patella and closely connected to the femur, hence the name ‘patellofemoral’.

  While total knee replacement, or full knee replacement as it’s sometimes called, is highly successful, it’s important to note not all knee osteoarthritis patients suffer from arthritic conditions in all regions of their knee. Some patients may be better off with a partial knee replacement to preserve the existing biological hardware inside the knee.

  Questions to Determine Whether You Need a Total or Partial Knee Replacement

  If you’re suffering from knee osteoarthritis, you may wonder whether you need a total knee arthroplasty (total knee replacement) or a partial knee replacement. There are several questions and variables to consider in this situation:

  • What is the extent of your knee osteoarthritic pain? If you’re experiencing significant differences in pain between one compartment of your knee instead of all three evenly, it may be a sign you’re better off considering partial knee replacement. For example, it is far more common for the medial compartment to be inhibited by osteoarthritis compared to the lateral compartment.

  • What health or lifestyle activities would you like to pursue? If you’re a lifelong golfer suffering from osteoarthritis, it may make sense to choose total knee replacement. Patients of all ages share they feel they have a “new lease on life” after a total knee replacement.

  Other factors include age, current health condition, current medications, and history of invasive surgeries. Your doctor will also want to discuss with you any potential health complications, such as high blood pressure, familial history of heart risks, etc. These are essential questions to answer when considering knee replacement surgery.

  Types of Prosthetic Options for Total and Partial Knee Replacement

  Once you and your doctor decide on the appropriate type of knee replacement, it often determines what type of hardware may be considered. Your desired activity level and lifestyle will also influence what types of knee implants are appropriate. The American Association for Orthopaedic Surgeons has an excellent list of available knee implants to consider. You may want to review this information with your orthopedic specialist.

  Can I Have a Total Knee Replacement If I Already Had a Partial Knee Replacement on the Same Knee?

  Total knee replacement may be a viable option if you previously underwent partial knee replacement on the same knee. If there is a good possibility you will need total knee replacement in the future, you may be better off with a total knee replacement instead of a partial knee replacement. Each patient’s situation is unique, which is why we recommend consulting with your doctor to find what’s right for you.

  We created a free resource to help you know how to navigate your post-op recovery from knee replacement surgery. Download your free copy of “The Step-by-Step Guide to Recovering from Knee Replacement Surgery and What to Expect Following Surgery”.

  If you’re suffering from knee osteoarthritis, your best decision is to connect with our staff of board-certified physicians at Orthopedic Associates. Schedule your next appointment here.

  
  

• When is a total knee replacement necessary for my arthritis pain?

  

  By: Dr. Richard Hulsey

  Arthritis pain can be debilitating. You know what it’s like to feel the sharp wince halfway up the stairs. Walking, let alone jogging or dancing, is a challenge with how much pain you feel. Maybe you’ve tried a regimen of pain medications and nothing’s worked. Is total knee replacement your final option to relieve your arthritis pain?

  Total knee replacements are more common than ever with an estimated 3,000,000 knee replacements to be performed every year by 2030. (AAHKS) Thankfully, there are many non-surgical treatment options to consider before undergoing total knee replacement. Is total knee replacement the best option for your particular condition? That may be the case, but the obvious choice is to consider non-invasive procedures and treatments first.

  Non-surgical alternatives for osteoarthritis knee pain

  NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), such as ibuprofen and aspirin, can help manage osteoarthritis pain in your knee. Losing weight is an excellent way to help reduce arthritis pain by relieving unnecessary pressure. Using a cane to assist you with walking can be a good, short-term solution as well as physical therapy. (Arthritis Research UK) However, one of the most reliable ways to relieve arthritis pain in the knee is through total knee replacement surgery. Nine out of ten knee replacement patients say they would have the same operation again to treat their knee arthritis. (AAHKS)

  Is total knee replacement right for me?

  In the end, total knee replacement may be the exact treatment option for your specific condition. Some patients who suffer from knee arthritis may be disabled due to pain or mechanical symptoms, such as buckling, popping, or limping. As arthritis worsens, the pain in the localized region can become more severe and start to affect other mechanical functions, such as flexibility throughout your legs.

  Our knee specialists at Orthopedic Associates consider all proven and safe treatment options when addressing osteoarthritic pain in the knee region. Total knee replacement has given many people a new lease on life that’s free from arthritic pain. If you are suffering from arthritic pain in your knee, your first step is to schedule an appointment with our Orthopedic Associates team.

  
  

• How Long Is the Recovery Period from Total Knee Replacement?

  

  By: Dr. Richard Hulsey

   

  If you’re facing knee replacement surgery, you probably have this question on your mind: how long until I’m back to normal after knee replacement surgery? The impact of knee replacement surgery is different for every patient. Your current health condition, medical history, family background, diet, age, and even stress level can play a significant role in your recovery.

  There are a few common stages of recovery that most patients experience following knee replacement surgery:

  • Initial Recovery: Your orthopedic surgeon will probably want you to be taking a few steps with your new knee within hours of surgery. This encourages blood flow to help prevent blood clots and mobilize any extra fluid received during surgery. You will probably be in the hospital for one or two days following knee replacement surgery. Pain is highly variable but is frequently controlled with a combination of medicines.

  • Weeks 1-2: As you transition home, you may be feeling like your knee feels strong and reliable again. This is where you need to trust your doctor’s advice: take it slowly. Your doctor will probably prescribe physical therapy to increase mobility. Follow their direction and give your body enough time to heal.

  • Weeks 3-6: Exercise and increasing activities are essential to a successful recovery. Physical therapy may be painful, but it will help your body regain mobility and strength over time. This means your new knee can have the greatest opportunity to improve your lifestyle.

  Most patients are able to resume moderate levels of activity within the first three months following total knee replacement surgery. More strenuous exercises, including higher impact sports, jumping, and heavy lifting are strongly discouraged for several months, even up to a year following surgery. As with all exercises and physical activity, we recommend consulting with your doctor before beginning any exercise following surgery.

  Are you curious about the post-total knee replacement recovery period? Download our FREE resource The Step-by-Step Guide to Recovering from Knee Replacement Surgery and What to Expect Following Surgery”. This valuable gift will give you a clear perspective on the weeks and months after surgery and how you can best prepare in advance.

  If you’re in need of knee replacement surgery, our team of board-certified physicians are some of St. Louis’ best at knee arthroplasty. We encourage you to ask questions, share your concerns, and give our team a chance to serve you. Connect with Orthopedic Associates today.

  
  

  
  

• Preparing Your Home for Post-Total Knee Replacement Surgery

  

  By Dr. Kramer

  Recovering from total knee replacement surgery can be a painful, grueling experience. The good news is many patients experience a new lease on life after knee replacement that allows them to enjoy golf, running, dancing, and many other activities that were painful to experience before the surgery. The recovery period can be several weeks long and of course, every patient’s situation is unique.

  Thankfully, there are a few easy ways to make your post-total knee replacement recovery a bit easier to manage around the house. In the days after your surgery, you will likely be back home and trying to have life be as normal as possible. With some simple changes in your home, you can make your recovery period much safer and more enjoyable.

  Protect against falling

  Of course, we hope you don’t fall at any time, but patients with a new knee are at a higher risk of falling. It’s wise to protect against a fall by installing an extra hand rail or two around the house and wearing shoes or socks with good traction. You may also want to install a few brighter light bulbs in dimly lit areas on your property to guide your footing.

  Get rid of clutter

  Do you really need that extra table or chair? Probably not. Having extra space is priceless when it comes to post-knee replacement surgery. Less clutter means less items that can block your path or cause you to fall. Try to create wider-than-normal walkways through your house so you have room to maneuver.

  This may also be a good time to secure a cleaning crew for the first six weeks following surgery. Your doctor will want you to avoid any unnecessary movements after surgery until they give you the go-ahead.

  Prepare to be comfortable

  The reality is you will have a lot of down time after your knee replacement surgery. You will want a comfortable ergonomic chair to support your back and buttocks for the first few weeks. A recliner may be your best option because it can lean back while elevating your legs.

  What else will you need to be as comfortable as possible while you recover? Here are a few items you may want to have within arm’s reach: a few power chargers for your laptop, tablet, or phone are important, as are tissues, a remote, books, pain medications, extra bottles of water, and a few health snacks.

  Total knee replacement recovery is different for every patient, which is why we recommend you having assistance from friends or family members to help you move around your house. Our team at Orthopedic Associates wants to help you recover well. We created a FREE resource for you entitled The Step-by-Step Guide to Recovering from Knee Replacement Surgery and What to Expect Following Surgery”.

  If you’re considering knee replacement surgery, your first choice should be our board-certified physicians at Orthopedic Associates. Schedule your next appointment today.

  
  

• Do you need a total joint replacement for your arthritis?

  

  By: Dr. Richard Hulsey

  
  

  The aches and discomfort of arthritis can disrupt anyone’s everyday routine. A simple walk through the store is no longer relaxing as ol’ “Arthur” lets you know he’s still around. Pain medication doesn’t seem to do the trick. Physical therapy helped, but your arthritis pain still flares up at times. Would a total joint replacement relieve your arthritis pain?

  This is a frequent question many of our patients ask who are suffering from arthritis. Arthritis is more common than ever with people living longer. The American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons estimates 500,000 hip replacements and 3,000,000 knee replacements will need to be performed each year by the year 2030. (American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons) But the question remains: do you need total joint replacement to be free of your arthritis pain?

  We believe in exploring all viable treatment options, starting with non-invasive treatments, to help alleviate your arthritis pain. For many patients, undergoing a total joint replacement may provide the relief and new lease on life they need. However, there are several criteria we consider before recommending total joint replacement:

  • What non-invasive treatment options may still be explored? Undergoing surgery can present its own set of potential risks and complications, both during and after the surgery. We would rather consider all appropriate treatment options before entertaining surgery.

  • What is quality of the patient’s overall health? A patient’s age, current health, any other medical complications or conditions, and medical history are crucial factors in determining whether surgery is a wise decision.

  • How much time is the patient expected to miss from work and other responsibilities due to recovering from surgery? The typical total joint replacement patient can expect to be back to work within six to eight weeks. Of course, the timeline varies for each patient and their occupation.

  • Would partial joint replacement be a more appropriate option? Partial joint replacement may be a viable option for knee joints and have definite advantages and risks. However, there are specific criteria that have to be met to be considered for a partial knee replacement

  Understand that total joint replacement is no guarantee you will be free from all discomfort. At the same time, many patients who meet the criteria do experience tremendous relief from much, if not all, of their arthritic pain. If you’re considering total joint replacement to alleviate arthritis, the first step is starting a conversation with our Orthopedic Associates team. Schedule an appointment with Orthopedic Associates.

  
  

• Staying mobile with osteoarthritis knee pain

  

  By: Richard Hulsey

  Arthritis affects over one in five adults in the U.S. (Everyday Health) Over 21 million U.S. adults suffer from osteoarthritis in their knees. (Source) The pain and discomfort of arthritic knees can be enough to keep anyone wary of additional movement. Staying mobile even with osteoarthritis is crucial to fighting off other health conditions that stem from a more sedentary lifestyle. Here are a few tips to help you keep moving, reduce knee pain, and prevent more dangerous health risks:

  • Maintain a healthy weight - Arthritic pain in the knees can be accentuated by carrying unnecessary body weight. Talk with your primary care physician to identify and target your ideal body weight for your body type, age, and health condition.

  • Stay active - Yes, it may seem counter-intuitive to reduce osteoarthritic knee pain by moving even more, but staying mobile increases blood flow throughout your legs and adds other health benefits. (Harvard Medical School) Water-based exercises, especially in warmer water, can help warm the knee regions and provide a safe resistance level that may be more acceptable than full-on weight-resistance exercises.

  • Know your exercise limits - Overuse of arthritic joints can further aggravate joint pain, so it’s best to stay within your exercise capabilities. Regular moderate exercise is often enough to keep osteoarthritic pain at bay for many years.

  • Stretch your legs - Use light stretching throughout the day to keep your knees well-lubricated and increase blood flow. A brisk walk or light jog at the beginning or end of the work day can help alleviate pain from sitting at a desk or walking all day.

  • Consume more Omega-3 fatty acids - Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon or trout, are filled with anti-inflammatory properties nearly identical to NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Eating fish rich in Omega-3 fatty acids twice a week can reduce osteoarthritic knee pain.

  Living with knee pain doesn’t have to be your everyday reality. Our board-certified physicians include knee pain specialists who can examine your condition and consider non-surgical and surgical treatment options that best fit your body’s unique needs. Don’t settle for a pain-filled walk to the mailbox or a climb up the stairs. Click here to schedule your next appointment or contact any of our St. Louis area locations.