When is total knee replacement recommended for knee osteoarthritis?

A surgeon considers the pattern of pain, stiffness, swelling, walking difficulty and sleep disruption, together with examination and imaging. The decision is about how much the joint limits your life, not an image alone. Treatment such as exercise-based physiotherapy, activity changes, weight management when relevant, pain relief or injections may be tried first. Knee osteoarthritis is explained in the condition guide.

Replacement removes damaged joint surfaces and places artificial components to help the knee move with less arthritic contact. It is major surgery, so expected improvement, medical conditions, rehabilitation and practical support are discussed carefully.

Track which activities are difficult, how far you can walk, whether pain wakes you, and what treatments have helped or caused problems. Bring a list of medicines and health conditions. Ask about physiotherapy before and after surgery, home preparation, mobility aids, wound care and the likely rehabilitation plan. Read more about Total Knee Replacement for an overview of the procedure.

Arrange an assessment if knee pain, stiffness or instability is steadily restricting work, sleep, stairs or personal care. Seek prompt care for a hot, markedly swollen knee with fever, a new inability to bear weight after an injury, or sudden calf swelling and breathlessness.

Ask what finding makes replacement reasonable now, which non-surgical options remain, what recovery involves, and how other health conditions could affect planning.