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April 14, 2025
Knee replacement surgery or sometimes called knee arthroplasty is one of the most successful and the most commonly performed orthopaedic surgeries today. It is an excellent pain reliever for those suffering from chronic knee pain and increases mobility in arthritis or wear-and-tear joint patients. Despite it being a popular operation, however, there are still misconceptions about this life-changing surgery.
As orthopaedic surgeons, it’s crucial to address these myths and educate patients with facts so they can make informed decisions. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 myths and facts about knee replacement surgery, separating fiction from reality.
Fact: Knee replacement is often delayed unnecessarily.
Numerous patients suffer years of pain and limited movement prior to even considering surgery, in the hope that it can be postponed to final resort. Though initial conservative therapy in the form of injections, medication, and physiotherapy may be successful, postponement until clearly indicated to operate will lead to further damage to joints, loss of mobility, and poorer surgical results. If your pain is affecting activity and quality of life, discuss with your orthopaedic surgeon early.”.
Fact: Today’s implants are long-lasting and durable.
The most common myth is that knee replacements last for just 10 years. Thanks to improved implant technology and surgical techniques, knee replacements now have a lifespan of easily 15–25 years or more, particularly if post-op instructions are adhered to. Young, active patients will likely need to undergo revision surgery later in life, but for most, the outcome is long-term.
Fact: Post-operative pain is temporary and can be controlled.
Although knee replacement is a serious surgery and there is some pain to be anticipated, pain management techniques have become better. Surgeons employ multimodal pain management techniques, such as spinal blocks, regional anesthesia, and medication to make patients comfortable. Most patients experience a decrease in pain that comes on gradually after the first week, and it is much less than the chronic joint pain they had prior to surgery.
Fact: Most patients return to normal or improved mobility.
Many people fear they’ll walk with a limp or won’t be able to resume everyday activities. In reality, knee replacement surgery is designed to restore function, and most patients walk without assistance in a few weeks. With proper physiotherapy, many go back to activities like walking, gardening, cycling, and even swimming.
Fact: Age is only one of the factors used to determine qualification.
While the procedure is more common in older adults, younger patients with advanced arthritis or injury may also be suitable candidates. What matters most is the severity of symptoms and the impact on quality of life, not just age. Many patients in their 40s or 50s undergo successful knee replacements, especially when the pain interferes with work or physical activity.
Fact: The majority of patients walk within days of surgery.
The worst that could occur is to be completely wheelchair dependent for life. In practice, early ambulation is the preferred approach postoperatively. Patients usually start walking on the aid of a walker or crutches on the day of surgery or shortly thereafter. At 4–6 weeks, most are walking independently and are strengthened by physiotherapy. A wheelchair is only occasionally required for longer than hospitalization.
Fact: Simultaneous bilateral knee replacement is available.
If both knees are needed, then some patients are told to have simultaneous bilateral knee replacement (both knees at once, in one operation) that usually cut down on recovery time and hospital stays. Not all patients are candidates for this surgery, though—age, health, and physical condition are factors. Some are better suited to having the one knee replaced at a time, staged surgery.
Fact: Most chronic conditions can be managed preoperatively.
Well-controlled diabetics, hypertensives, or patients with heart disease can also safely undergo knee replacement. Proper pre-op medical workup is performed to try to keep the patient safe. With proper planning and coordination on the part of the medical team, complications are kept to a minimum, and such patients recover as well as patients without such a condition.
Fact: True rejection is extremely rare.
Unlike organ transplants, knee implants are made of biocompatible materials like titanium, cobalt-chromium alloys, and medical grade polyethylene. These are not rejected by the body. Although some patients are allergic to some metals, allergy tests and other implants can be substituted if necessary. Rejection in the classical sense is very rare.
Fact: Most low-impact activities are not only feasible but advisable too.
After recovery, the patients are recommended to stay active so that they may maintain their joints flexible and strong. Walking, yoga, golfing, swimming, and cycling are generally safe and healthy in most situations. But do not play high-impact activities like running or jumping in an effort to preserve your implant longevity. Your surgeon and physiotherapist will recommend proper and safe exercises.
Fact: Knee replacement is one of the most successful orthopaedic surgeries.
More than 90–95% of knee replacements are successful, leading to years of pain relief and improvement in function. With all surgery, there are risks, including infection or blood clots, but they are rare and can be treated. Having an experienced surgeon, adhering to pre- and post-op orders, and implementation of rehabilitation minimize the chance for complications.
Learning about the facts on knee replacement surgery dispels fear and misunderstanding and allows patients to make a properly informed health choice. Knee arthroplasty is today a safe, reliable, and life-changing procedure for patients who suffer from debilitating joint pain.
If you or someone you know is under the burden of ongoing knee problems, don’t be held up by myths. Find an experienced orthopaedic surgeon for proper evaluation and an individualized plan.Your knees bring you through life—taking care of them is an investment in your future health and mobility.