Myths About Knee Replacement
The fear of knee replacement surgery is a common concern that often prevents people from seeking much-needed relief. For many, the thought of undergoing such a significant procedure is daunting, largely due to widespread myths about knee replacement. People frequently worry about potential complications, lengthy recovery times, and the overall effectiveness of the surgery. These fears can be so overwhelming that they overshadow the potential benefits.
This fear is further compounded by stories of past failures and outdated information that continue to circulate, creating hesitation and anxiety. Early implants were designed based on the knee measurements of Caucasian people, whose knees are typically larger. These implants were imported and used for Asian patients, often resulting in complications after knee replacement surgery.
However, advancements in medical technology have addressed these issues. Today, implant manufacturers design knee systems specifically for the anatomical structure of Asian patients, significantly reducing the risk of complications.
Despite these improvements, myths and fears still persist, affecting the decision-making process for many. By debunking these myths, we can help our loved ones make informed choices. Let’s explore these common myths about knee replacement and clarify the facts. By understanding the reality, you can encourage your loved ones to take the necessary steps toward a healthier, pain-free life.
Myth 1: Knee Replacement is Only for the Elderly
Reality: A common myth about knee replacement is that it’s only for older adults. This belief can prevent younger people from considering the procedure, even when they would benefit. The truth is, knee replacement is for anyone suffering from chronic knee pain or damage that impacts daily life.
Image Source: Pixabay
Recently, younger patients, some in their 30s or 40s, have undergone knee replacement surgeries.⁽¹⁾ ⁽³⁾ This is often due to arthritis or injury. Delaying surgery can lead to more severe pain and joint deterioration, making the procedure more complicated later on.
If someone you care about is in pain, encourage them to speak with a doctor, regardless of age. The earlier the issue is addressed, the sooner they can return to an active and fulfilling life. Don’t let myths about knee replacement keep them from relief.
Myth 2: Recovery Takes Years
Reality: Recovery time is one of the biggest concerns people have when considering knee replacement surgery. It’s easy to assume that the procedure will leave them bedridden for months or even years. But this is one of the most misleading myths about knee replacement.
With advancements in medical technology, robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery now offers greater precision significantly improving outcomes. This cutting-edge approach not only enhances surgical accuracy but also leads to faster, more efficient recovery, providing patients with improved mobility and a quicker return to daily activities. Most patients can walk with support just a day or two after surgery. In 3-6 months, many return to regular activities, and some even resume moderate exercise within weeks.
So, if your loved one is holding back because they fear a lengthy recovery based on such myths about knee replacement, assure them that they’ll be back on their feet sooner than they think, because their pain shouldn’t last any longer than it has to.
You may also read: Why Gallbladder Surgery? My Battle with Gallbladder Pain
Myth 3: Knee Replacements Don’t Last Long
Reality: Another common myth is that knee replacements are often unsuccessful or the surgery doesn’t last and will require a redo after just a few years. This fear can make people hesitant to go through with the surgery in the first place. However, this belief is outdated.
Modern prosthetics and surgical techniques have advanced significantly. Today, knee replacements often last 15 to 20 years or more.⁽²⁾ Many patients never need a second surgery. Even for younger patients, the pain relief and improved mobility they experience make the procedure worth it, even if a revision is required decades later.
Encourage your loved ones to see knee replacement as a long-term investment in their well-being. Don’t let them be misled by myths about knee replacement that could stop them from enjoying a pain-free life.
Myth 4: You’ll Be Dependent on Support Forever
Reality: One of the most discouraging myths about knee replacement is the belief that undergoing knee replacement surgery will leave you reliant on crutches, a walker, or a wheelchair for the rest of your life. This simply isn’t true.
Most patients begin walking with support just days after surgery. As they progress through rehabilitation, they regain strength and mobility. Many walk unaided within weeks. The goal of knee replacement surgery is to restore independence, allowing patients to return to the activities they enjoy, without pain.
If your loved one hesitates because they fear losing independence, reassure them. This surgery is meant to restore their freedom. Don’t let them believe in such misconceptions that could hold them back from living fully.
Myth 5: The Surgery is Extremely Painful
Reality: It’s normal for people to fear the pain associated with surgery. However, the fear of post-surgical pain shouldn’t stop anyone from seeking treatment for a better quality of life. Sadly, many people fall victim to myths about knee replacement regarding unbearable pain during or after surgery.
Image Source: Vecteezy
Advances in anesthesia and pain management have made the procedure much less painful than it once was. Today, doctors use a combination of medications to control pain, both during and after surgery. Many patients report that the post-surgery pain is far less than the chronic pain they suffered before the procedure.
More importantly, post-surgical pain is temporary. As patients heal, they experience significant relief. Many notice a reduction in pain and an improvement in mobility that allows them to enjoy life again.
Encourage your loved ones to focus on the long-term benefits. The temporary discomfort of surgery is worth the years of pain-free living that follow. Don’t let myths about knee replacement stop them from getting the treatment they need.
You may also read: Life After Uterus Removal Surgery for Fibroids
Treatment Zaroori Hai: How You Can Help
Watching a loved one suffer from knee pain is difficult. Their pain isn’t just theirs; it affects everyone around them. “Aapki taqleef sirf aapki nahi hoti.” That’s why supporting them in making informed health decisions is crucial, especially when myths about knee replacement are holding them back.
If your loved one is hesitant about surgery, you can help by encouraging them to take that first step. You can start your loved ones healing journey with Treatment Zaroori Hai platform. It allows you to create AI-generated videos on WhatsApp with a personalized message from MS Dhoni. https://bit.ly/4d9zvAJ
You can share these videos with your family and friends. Help them understand that relief is possible. Sometimes, a little encouragement from someone who cares is all it takes to help them make a life-changing decision.
Let’s urge our loved ones to prioritize their health. Their pain doesn’t just affect them, it affects all of us. Treatment zaroori hai, kyunki aapki taqleef sirf aapki nahi hoti.
By addressing these common myths about knee replacement and offering support, you can help your loved ones make the right choice for their health and well-being.
References:
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/knee-replacement-in-young-patients-2548661
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6381229/
- https://www.cfaortho.com/media/news/2023/09/am-i-too-young-for-joint-replacement-surgery
Image Source:
- Main Image by u_if8o5n0ioo from Pixabay
- Image by Tung Lam from Pixabay
- Knee Surgery Stock photos by Vecteezy
Disclaimer – The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and shall not be considered as a substitute for doctor’s advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. This is a sponsored post.
This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla
in collaboration with Dr. Preeti Chauhan.
I didn’t know that earlier implants weren’t designed for everyone, which explains why there were issues before. It’s good to know through your post that things have improved now with implants made for different body types. You’ve cleared lots of fears people havea about knee replacement.
Thanks for creating awareness around knee replacement! So many people still worry due to myths, and this initiative helps clear those misconceptions. ‘Treatment zaruri hai’ is a crucial reminder for taking timely action for better health.
You have cleared so many doubts that common myths have created about knee replacement. Most people do fear the long recovery time associated with knee surgery, without verifying with professionals. It is better to go in for knee replacement, then bearing with pain and inconvenience for long.
Having personally witnessed Knee surgery of my father-in-law, I completely agree with you throughout. There are lot of myths surrounding around knee surgery however with advancements, procedure is quicker, with better patient management.
this post is like an eye opener that busts the myths that exist and help people make decisions about knee replacement surgeries. I particularly loved the personalized video being created to encourage the person who needs the surgery
Great information on debunking the myths about knee replacement treatments. It is reassuring to know how medical advancements can change life significantly, without the worry of ‘ifs’ and ‘buts’. It enhances the quality of life.
There’s so much here that I didn’t know or was misinformed about, especially the bit about knee replacement being only for the elderly. Thanks so much for sharing this useful and authentic information
This post is very useful. I know a lot of elderly people who are sceptical about getting knee surgery done. I am sure there are many others who will read this and will get the courage to go for it.
This is a very encouraging article dispelling many fears around knee replacement surgery. if knees gets damaged either due to old age, or obesity, or arthritis or sports, it is important to take a orthopedic physicians opinion.
It is true many things have improved over time. it is still important to choose the best doctor in town. because any small error made cannot be rectified.
Robotic surgery is great. But it costs a lot of money. Almost double the amount charged for a regular surgery. I found that out for my eye operation. So know the cost before opting for one.
That’s quite a lot of myths busted. I don’t know much about knee replacement, though I pray that I live with my knees till the end. But hearing about young people needing it, makes me wonder how we really need to take care of ourselves. I am sure this post is helpful for all those who wish to know more before they opt for this surgery.
I am glad that you chose to write about and busted many myths that would have been deterrents for people seeking knee replacement or thinking about this option when suffering from disabling pain.
It’s true that with modern prosthesis and better post surgical care , the recovery is less painful and faster if surgery is inevitable.
True, I’ve known people both young and old who’ve undergone this procedure and are leading a happy life. There are so many myths and your post has done a good job busting those. A much needed awareness post, Neha.
Thank you for this one. The post burst all the myths about knee replacement surgery. Helpful and informative.
Thanks for busting these myths. My mother had knee pain and it took years to convince her for surgery coz of these myths. Especially the recovery and painful one. But now after surgery she is very good
With the advance medical treatments it’s easy to get recovered from such issues. However, from the personal experice, I wish no one should go through such a painful experience even if degree of pain is less now.
A highly motivating article, indeed! That pain bit is what caught my eye, and it’s so reassuring to read that pain is definitely manageable. Great points and amazing Mythbusters!
You have rightly busted all the myths. Fear of surgery and pain makes people put it off. But in reality the younger you are the easier it heals. Many women in my family have gone for knee replacement surgery but all of them when they were above 65-70 and it has not been an easy recovery for them.
Quite a few people in my family have had knee replacements so I was aware of a few things but it is always good to know more. I will surely share your post with those who are planning to go for it. Thanks for sharing such an informative post.
That is quite an eye opener for me personally…
My father in law and buya mother in law (buya saas) both believe that knee replacement is the worst thing and bearing the pain for years. I made efforts to convince but in no vain… who hears a daughter in law’s suggestion. there are people who want to believe in myths more than being scientifically practical. Will share ur post with them … hope they trust now that I am not wrong 😶
this is so helpful, you’ve addressed a lot of the common thoughts and worries people have. it’s good to learn about the betterment of treatment roo
There are so many myths surrounding knee replacement surgery that have people suffering in pain instead of going in for surgery. Thank you for busting a few of them. Your post is indeed an eye-opener.
Giving a personalized touch for a video to help them decide is something interesting. The post was helpful in busting myths and helps people make decisions
Oh wow. this is is what I counsel my patients regularly. my husband does knee replacement almost everyday in his hospital. it’s truly life changing, for the better.
My uncle had his knee replaced and as an active person, I can really see how much of a help having his knee replaced had gave him more opportunity to do what he wants to do. For me, this is the kind of innovation technology does that I appreciate the most.
Informative post. I hope we all remain healthy.
Very true. This is such an informative and insightful post. Many myths hamper the thinking of the needy person. This post helps any person rethink knee replacement. I will bookmark it.