What Is Knee Replacement?
Knee replacement is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or worn-out knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint made of metal and plastic components. It is usually recommended for patients who have severe knee pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility due to conditions like advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or injury-related joint damage. The goal of the surgery is to relieve pain, restore smooth movement, and help the patient return to daily activities with improved comfort and function.
For many patients, knee replacement becomes a solution when medicines, physiotherapy, and other non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief, making it an important step toward regaining an active, pain-free lifestyle.
Who Needs Knee Replacement?
Doctors usually recommend Knee Replacement to patients who have severe knee problems that no longer improve with medicines, physiotherapy, or other simple treatments. It is mainly suggested for:
- A diseased patient (bimar patient): Someone who has long-term joint diseases like severe osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Their knee cartilage becomes badly damaged, causing constant pain, swelling, and difficulty walking.
- An injured patient: A person who has had a major knee injury, such as fractures, ligament damage, or trauma that has permanently harmed the joint. When the knee cannot function normally even after treatment, replacement may be needed.
- An elderly patient: Older adults whose knees have worn out due to age-related degeneration. They often face stiffness, pain while walking, and limited movement because the joint surface becomes weak over time.
Common Symptoms Leading to Knee Replacement
Before considering knee replacement, patients usually experience a pattern of worsening knee problems that affect their daily routine and quality of life. These issues start gradually but become more frequent and more painful over time. Simple activities like walking, getting up from a chair, or climbing stairs begin to feel difficult, and the knee may feel stiff or unstable. As the joint damage progresses, the discomfort starts interfering with sleep, work, and regular movement. This leads to a set of common symptoms, such as:
- Persistent Knee Pain
- Difficulty Walking or Climbing Stairs
- Joint Stiffness & Reduced Mobility
Causes of Knee Joint Damage
Before knee problems reach the stage where a replacement is considered, certain underlying conditions gradually damage the joint. These issues weaken the cartilage, increase inflammation, and put excessive pressure on the knee, making everyday activities painful and difficult. Over time, the joint becomes less flexible and more prone to stiffness or swelling, especially during movement. Most patients who require knee replacement usually fall under one of the following major causes:
- Osteoarthritis-Related Wear & Tear
- Injury or Trauma
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Obesity-Related Stress on Joints
Benefits of Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement surgery offers several meaningful improvements that help patients return to a more active and comfortable lifestyle. Once the damaged joint is replaced with a smooth, artificial one, the constant friction, swelling, and stiffness begin to decrease. Daily movements—like walking, bending, or climbing stairs—become easier, and patients often feel more confident using their knees again. Overall, the procedure aims to restore comfort, stability, and independence. Some key benefits include:
- Pain Reduction
- Improved Joint Mobility
- Better Quality of Life
- Long-Term Stability
Knee Replacement Recovery Time – What to Expect
In the first 24–48 hours after surgery patients begin gentle movements and physiotherapy as soon as possible. Pain and swelling are managed, and walking with support (walker/crutches) usually starts within the first day.
After 2–6 weeks of progress, the mobility improves as patients walk more confidently with reduced support. Pain decreases, stitches heal, and range-of-motion exercises help the knee bend and straighten better.
In 3–6 months strength building muscles around the knee become stronger, balance improves, and most daily activities feel comfortable. Patients can walk longer distances and return to low-impact routines.
After a year the knee reaches full strength and flexibility. The artificial joint feels natural, and patients can enjoy a stable, pain-free lifestyle with maximum function.
Rehabilitation & Physiotherapy After Knee Replacement
After knee replacement, rehabilitation and physiotherapy play a crucial role in helping patients recover safely and regain full knee function. These therapies begin soon after surgery and continue for several weeks to ensure the new joint moves smoothly and becomes strong enough for daily activities. With guided exercises and regular practice, patients gradually rebuild muscle strength, improve flexibility, and restore balance. This structured recovery plan helps them walk more comfortably and return to normal routines faster. Key parts of the rehabilitation program include:
- Range-of-Motion Exercises: These exercises help the knee bend and straighten smoothly after surgery. They prevent stiffness and improve flexibility so the joint can move normally in daily activities.
- Strengthening Exercises: These focus on building the muscles around the knee—especially the quadriceps and hamstrings. Strong muscles support the new joint, reduce pain, and improve overall stability while walking.
- Balance & Mobility Training: This helps patients regain confidence in standing and moving. It improves coordination, reduces the risk of falls, and allows smoother transitions like turning, stepping, and climbing stairs.
- Home Exercise Routine: Patients continue simple exercises at home to maintain progress made in physiotherapy sessions. Regular practice helps the knee stay strong, flexible, and functional even after formal rehab ends.
Risks & Complications of Knee Replacement
While knee replacement is generally a safe and successful procedure, it’s important for patients to understand that, like any surgery, a few risks can occur. These risks are uncommon and are usually well-managed with proper medical care, early physiotherapy, and timely follow-up visits. Knowing about them simply helps patients stay aware, take the right precautions, and recover smoothly. Some possible risks and complications include:
- Infection Risk
- Blood Clots
- Implant Loosening
- Post-Surgery Stiffness
Top 5 Mistakes After Knee Replacement
After a knee replacement, most patients recover smoothly, but certain common mistakes can slow down healing or cause unnecessary discomfort. Being aware of these errors helps patients stay on track, regain strength, and achieve the best results from their new knee. Here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid after knee replacement:
- Skipping Physiotherapy
- Overdoing Activities Too Soon
- Not Using Walking Aids Initially
- Ignoring Pain or Swelling Signs
- Not Following Home Exercise Routine
Preparing for Knee Replacement Surgery – What You Should Do
Before knee replacement, a little preparation can make your surgery smoother and recovery faster. Patients should focus on improving their health, arranging home support, and following their doctor’s instructions carefully. Simple steps like doing pre-surgery exercises, managing existing medical conditions, and preparing the home for safe movement (like removing loose rugs or obstacles) can make a big difference. Staying informed and ready helps you enter the surgery with confidence and peace of mind.
Alternatives to Knee Replacement Surgery
Here are some Alternatives to Knee Replacement Surgery that doctors may suggest before moving to a surgical option:
- Medications for Pain & Inflammation (such as NSAID salts) to manage symptoms.
- Physiotherapy & Strength Training to improve joint support and mobility.
- Weight Management to reduce pressure on the knee joint.
- Injections like corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid to decrease pain and improve joint lubrication.
- Knee Braces or Supportive Devices to stabilize the joint during movement.
- Lifestyle Modifications such as avoiding high-impact activities and choosing low-impact exercises.
Why Choose Artemis Hospitals for Knee Replacement?
Choosing Artemis Hospitals, Gurugram for knee replacement offers patients the advantage of expert care, modern technology, and a smooth recovery journey. The hospital combines medical excellence with patient-focused treatment, ensuring safe surgery and long-term results. Here’s how Artemis stands out:
Artemis has a highly skilled team of knee specialists who perform a large number of successful replacements every year. Their expertise helps ensure accurate diagnosis, safe surgery, and strong recovery outcomes.
The hospital uses cutting-edge robotic systems that allow for precise alignment and placement of the knee implant. This improves surgical accuracy, reduces pain, and enhances the life of the new joint. Artemis surgeons use small incisions and tissue-sparing methods, which lead to less pain, faster healing, and quicker return to normal activities compared to traditional surgery.
Artemis offers a structured physiotherapy plan, guided recovery sessions, and continuous monitoring. This ensures patients regain strength, mobility, and confidence at every step of their rehabilitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need knee replacement?
You may need knee replacement if knee pain is severe, long-lasting, and does not improve with medicines, physiotherapy, injections, or lifestyle changes. Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, stiffness, and reduced quality of life are major indicators.
When should I consult an orthopaedic doctor for knee pain?
If knee pain lasts more than a few weeks, affects daily activities, causes swelling, instability, or night pain, you should see an orthopaedic specialist.
Is robotic knee replacement better than traditional surgery?
Robotic knee replacement offers higher precision, better implant alignment, less tissue damage, and potentially faster recovery. However, suitability depends on individual patient conditions.
How long does knee replacement surgery take?
A standard knee replacement procedure usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the complexity.
What is the knee replacement surgery recovery time?
Initial recovery takes 4–6 weeks, but full recovery may take 3–6 months, depending on physiotherapy, overall health, and activity level.
What is the success rate for knee replacement surgery?
Knee replacement is one of the most successful orthopaedic procedures, with a success rate of 90–95%, and implants often last 15–20 years.
How soon can I walk after knee replacement?
Most patients begin walking within 24 hours of surgery with support from a physiotherapist.
How important is physiotherapy after knee replacement?
Physiotherapy is critical. It helps restore mobility, strengthen muscles, improve balance, and ensures long-term success of the knee implant.
How do I find the best knee replacement surgeon near me?
Look for qualifications, experience, patient reviews, hospital facilities, advanced technology availability, and past outcomes. A reputed tertiary-care hospital is a good place to start.
Where can I get robotic knee replacement surgery near me?
Robotic knee replacement is available at advanced orthopaedic centers such as Artemis Hospitals, Gurugram, known for modern robotic-assisted joint replacement systems.
Which hospital offers knee replacement physiotherapy near me?
Artemis Hospitals provides specialized post–knee replacement physiotherapy, including rehabilitation plans tailored to each patient.
How do I book a knee replacement consultation at Artemis Hospitals near me?
You can book an appointment easily by calling the Artemis Hospitals appointment line: +91 98004 00498.
