You don’t have to live with a stiff, painful knee until age 80, before considering knee replacement. Advances in modern surgical techniques in knee replacement surgery are now an option for younger patients with exceptional results.
The demographic of joint replacement surgery has evolved as patients stay active later in life. Knee replacement surgery is now performed more frequently on people in their 50s seeking relief from chronic knee pain.1 Active individuals with osteoarthritis can now maintain a healthy lifestyle well into the future. Knee replacement is not a last resort for the elderly.
A knee replacement surgery is one of the most successful surgeries in modern medicine.2 Artificial implants replace worn-out or damaged portions of the knee joint during knee replacement surgery. After surgery, pain levels and mobility improve in over 90% of patients.3 As a result, many individuals can return to the activities they enjoyed before developing knee problems.
The importance of staying active for good health is imperative. A knee replacement may enhance your ability to exercise regularly. It is possible to manage or prevent many health conditions by undergoing joint replacement surgery, including cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, and osteoporosis, to name a few.
A knee replacement surgery used to require a prolonged hospital stay. Same-day joint replacement surgeries have become more prevalent. Outpatient joint replacement surgery is an excellent option for many patients. In addition to feeling more comfortable in their beds and surrounded by their loved ones, patients receive more rest, allowing them to heal faster.
Patients today can experience greater satisfaction and a faster return to activity after modern knee replacement surgery. Knee replacement surgery isn't just for old folks. Total knee replacement improves quality of life for younger patients who want to live an active life for many years to come.
AUTHOR: Natham Hammel, MD is a board-certified fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement in Southern California, serving the Greater San Diego area.
