Total Knee Replacement / Partial Knee Replacement

Knee replacement is typically considered when knee pain becomes persistent, limits daily activity, and no longer improves with non-surgical care.

The goal is to reduce pain, restore movement, and help you return to normal activities with more stability and confidence.

A proper evaluation helps determine whether surgery makes sense now, later, or not at all.

When Knee Replacement May Be the Right Option

You may want to consider knee replacement if you are experiencing:

  • Pain that limits walking, stairs, or daily activities
  • Ongoing swelling or stiffness that does not improve
  • Knee pain that interferes with sleep
  • A feeling that the knee is unstable or may give out
  • Limited relief from physical therapy, injections, or medication
  • Avoiding activities you used to do because of knee pain

If your symptoms are progressing or affecting your quality of life, it may be time to evaluate your options.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Knee Replacement

Knee replacement is not based on age alone. It depends on your symptoms, joint condition, and how much your knee is affecting your daily life.

Typical candidates include people who:

  • Have moderate to severe arthritis confirmed on imaging
  • Experience ongoing pain despite non-surgical treatment
  • Have reduced mobility or function due to knee pain

It’s also worth evaluating if you’ve been told:

  • You are not a candidate for surgery
  • Your case is too complex
  • You should “wait it out” despite ongoing limitations

In many cases, there may still be options available depending on your specific situation.

Understanding Your Options

Knee replacement is most commonly performed as a total knee replacement, but in some cases a partial knee replacement may be appropriate.

The right approach depends on how much of the joint is affected and your overall condition.

Total Knee Replacement

In a total knee replacement, damaged cartilage and bone are replaced with a prosthetic joint designed to restore smooth movement and reduce pain.

This is the most common option when arthritis affects multiple areas of the knee.

Partial Knee Replacement

A partial knee replacement may be considered when damage is limited to one part of the knee.

This approach preserves more of the natural joint and may allow for a more natural feel after recovery in the right patient.

What Happens During Knee Replacement

Knee replacement surgery typically takes about an hour.

During the procedure:

  • Damaged portions of the joint are removed
  • The joint surface is reshaped
  • A prosthetic implant is placed to restore function

Most patients begin moving the knee shortly after surgery and start physical therapy to regain motion and strength.

Recovery and What to Expect

Recovery varies based on the individual, but most patients can expect:

  • Walking with assistance shortly after surgery
  • Physical therapy to improve movement and strength
  • Gradual return to normal daily activities over time

Some patients may qualify for outpatient joint replacement, while others may stay briefly in the hospital depending on their needs.

The focus of recovery is steady progress in mobility, strength, and confidence using the knee.

When to Seek an Evaluation

If your knee pain is limiting your daily life or continuing to worsen, an evaluation can help clarify your next step.

You do not need to know whether you need surgery before scheduling. The purpose of the evaluation is to understand your condition and review your options.

Schedule an evaluation

Not sure if you’re ready for surgery?

A proper evaluation can help you understand whether knee replacement makes sense now, later, or not at all.

Schedule an Evaluation

Goal of Knee Replacement

The goal of knee replacement is to help you return to a more active, comfortable lifestyle by reducing pain and improving joint function.

Many patients are able to get back to walking, travel, and daily activities with significantly less discomfort.

Knee Pain Resources

Explore common questions and situations related to knee pain:

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Ready to Take the Next Step?

If knee pain is limiting your daily life, the next step is a proper evaluation. We’ll help you understand what’s causing the issue and what your options are.

Most patients start with a simple consultation to determine the best path forward.

Schedule an Evaluation