What Is Included In An Orthopedic Evaluation?

How Will Total Knee Replacement Surgery Effect My Life?

These are questions that are frequently asked by people experiencing knee pain and considering surgery. You will be happy to know that total knee replacement surgery can make a big difference in the amount of pain you are experiencing. It can also help you get back into your life as an active participant. However, it will not perform a miracle on your general quality of life and level of activity and ability.

Reduced pain and increased mobility are reported by better than ninety percent of total knee replacement recipients. For this reason, this procedure is very popular. The key to being pleased with your total knee replacement surgery is to understand that it will greatly improve your life, but it will not make you capable of doing things you could not do before your knee was damaged. It will greatly reduce the pain you have been experiencing, and it will help you to return to your activities of daily living at a normal level.

Additionally, it is important to remember that you must avoid some activities after surgery, even if they were activities you enjoyed before surgery. Jogging and high-impact sports must be given up.

Furthermore, you must understand that your knee replacement will be subject to normal wear and tear. Overuse will accelerate this. The plastic cushion may become worn, which in turn will cause your knee replacement to loosen and become painful. For this reason, it is wise to use your knee carefully to protect it and extend its life.

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During an orthopedic evaluation, you can expect the following:

Medical History: You will be asked questions about your general health and about the level of pain and functioning you are experiencing with your knee.

Physical Examination: To assess the strength, stability and ROM (range of motion) of your knee as well as the alignment of your leg.

Third, the amount of deformity and damage will be assessed using x-ray.

Various Testing: You may have blood tests, an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and possibly a bone scan to find out the condition of the bones and soft tissues of your knee.

Finally, your orthopedic surgeon will review your results and your options with you. You will learn about total knee replacement, alternative surgeries, physical therapy, medication, and injections. Together, you and your orthopedic surgeon will decide on your course of treatment.

At this point, your orthopedic surgeon will also clarify any risks that may be involved in total knee replacement surgery, rehabilitation, and functioning in day-to-day life with a knee replacement.

Dr. Tarlow is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon with over 20 years specializing in knee surgery. He opened his own clinic, Advanced Knee Care, with a focus on specialty patient care. Click here to learn more about Dr. Tarlow, knee arthroscopy and partial and total knee.