One of the more common complaints of getting older is that joints don’t work as well as they used to. When this occurs in the knee, this can spell serious trouble: pain, becoming chair-bound, and losing the ability to take care of yourself. This loss of independence can make life extremely difficult and uncomfortable.
Knee joint problems of this nature are often the cause of arthritis, a condition that occurs in people over 50 years of age. Osteoarthritis is a condition of ‘wear and tear’, as the cartilage that absorbs shock and stays between your bone to protect the joints wears off over time, causing the bones to rub into each other. Other forms of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, which is characterised by inflammation in the knee area. Knee joint problems can also be a result of an injury, known as post-traumatic arthritis.
The most common form of treatment is a total knee replacement. This procedure has been in use for decades, with improvements to technique and safety along the way. In this procedure, the ends of the bones that meet at the joint of your knee are replaced with metal and plastic implants. This effectively replaces your natural joints with functional implants that eliminate the problem of a worn-out cartilage and all the problems it causes.
Total knee replacement is not a simple undertaking despite its long history. It requires recovery and rehabilitation out of the surgery room. While its aim is to eliminate pain and provide relief, patients must be realistic in the outcome – for patients undergoing surgery during advanced stages of arthritis, the relief may not be as pronounced as those who are doing it in the early stages. It’s important to consult with a doctor to know what the best treatment options are.
At Dr. Kevin Darr’s clinic, we have decades of experience treating patients with knee replacements. As part of our commitment to providing the safest and most reliable treatment, the clinic makes use of the Stryker Mako robotic arm, which provides for precise and accurate surgery by taking into account each patient’s individual condition using medical imaging technology.
To learn more about whether a knee replacement is the right treatment option for you, contact us today at Dr. Kevin Darr’s clinic for a consultation to learn about safe treatment methods for your health.
