Thinking about knee replacement surgery? Before you commit, make sure you’ve ticked off these five crucial checkpoints. Your knees deserve nothing less than a well-informed decision.
- Clinical Evaluation: More Than Just Scans
A proper clinical exam isn’t optional—it’s foundational. Your doctor should assess:
- Mechanical stability
- Range of motion
- Signs of inflammation
- Any subluxation (partial dislocation)
Scans can’t capture everything. Hands-on evaluation reveals what machines might miss.
- The Right Imaging: Weight-Bearing X-rays Matter
Plain X-rays while lying down? Not enough. You need:
- Weight-bearing X-rays (taken while standing)
- Possibly MRIs of both knees
These give a realistic picture of how your knees function under pressure—literally.
- Know Your Arthritis Stage
Arthritis isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s staged from Grade 1 (early) to Grade 4 (advanced). TKR is usually recommended only for Grade 4 and beyond. Your doctor should clearly explain:
- Your current stage
- What it means for your mobility and pain
- Whether surgery is truly necessary
- Tried All Conservative Treatments?
Before going under the knife, ask yourself:
- Have I tried physiotherapy?
- Pain meds, cartilage boosters, braces, footwear tweaks?
- Lifestyle changes and exercises?
Surgery should be the last resort—not the first suggestion.
- Have You Explored Regenerative Options?
Regenerative medicine is changing the game for osteoarthritis. If your doctor hasn’t mentioned it, consider consulting a specialist. Treatments like PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) or stem cell therapy might help delay or even avoid surgery.
Still unsure? A second opinion from a regenerative medicine expert could offer new hope.
