Are you or a loved one suffering from chronic knee pain? Are you putting off knee replacement surgery due to fear or hesitation? If so, you’re not alone. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, more than 700,000 total knee replacements are performed annually in the U.S., and that number is expected to rise as the population ages.
Knee problems are a common issue that can affect people of all ages and lifestyles, and the consequences of delaying treatment can be dangerous. For patients with severe knee arthritis, knee replacement surgery is considered the most effective and cost-efficient treatment. When conservative treatments are no longer working, getting the surgery is the best way to relieve pain, treat leg deformity, improve range of motion, and help you return to your everyday lifestyle.
In this blog, we’ll explore the risks of delaying knee replacement surgery and why it’s essential to address knee problems sooner rather than later.
What is Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery procedure involves replacing a damaged or diseased knee joint with an artificial joint made of metal and plastic. This procedure is typically recommended for individuals with severe knee pain and stiffness that limits their daily activities, including walking, climbing stairs, or getting in and out of chairs.
What to Do if You’re Not Ready for Surgery?
It is not easy to say yes to surgery. Making this critical decision takes time, and you should take as much time as possible to consider the best course of treatment based on your situation. If you have reservations, discuss them with our Spring Hill orthopedics surgeon to explore alternative options and make an informed choice.
However, you should remember that although delaying surgery for several months has only minor consequences, prolonging it for years can lead to poorer outcomes and higher costs.
Why is Delaying Knee Replacement Surgery Risky?
Time is of great importance in maximizing the benefits of knee replacement surgery. When surgery is delayed, arthritis can further deteriorate the condition and function of the affected knee. This leads to the inability to exercise and minimal physical activity, contributing to other lifestyle diseases.
In knee replacement, a patient’s mobility before the surgery is an indicator and predictor of expected mobility after the surgery. Compared to patients who get timely surgery, those who delay still have reduced mobility even after the operation.
The Dangers of Delaying Knee Replacement Surgery
While knee replacement surgery may seem scary and overwhelming, it is a standard and safe procedure. So, what happens if you delay knee replacement surgery? Let’s take a closer look the potential risks and why you should trust Dr. Tarabishy to help you through this journey.
Increased Pain and Discomfort
Delaying knee replacement surgery to avoid temporary pain can lead to more discomfort in the long term. As the damaged joint deteriorates, simple activities become painful and difficult. This can result in chronic pain and limited mobility, significantly decreasing your quality of life.
Degeneration and Worsening of Condition
Delaying knee replacement surgery can worsen your condition as the knee joint deteriorates. This causes increased pain, stiffness, and loss of function. Arthritis can also progress, complicating the repair process and increasing the risk of complications.
Risk of Falls and Injuries
Damaged knees and increased pain can impact your walking balance, making you more prone to falls and injuries. This is especially concerning for older adults, as falls are a leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries, including broken bones and head injuries.
Loss of Independence and Mobility
The knee joint is essential for mobility and independence. Delaying knee replacement surgery can lead to loss of these abilities, hindering daily tasks and causing dependence. This can affect mental and emotional well-being, leading to isolation and financial strain.
General Health Problems
Arthritis is common and more severe in older patients. Similarly, the risk for lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, and heart problems increases with age. These health conditions can further complicate the recovery process.
Financial Burden
Delaying knee surgery can be costly. As your condition worsens, you may need more doctor visits, medication, and therapy. Plus, if it causes disability, you’ll have to cover home modifications, devices, and caregivers. It’s better to get surgery sooner.
Mental and Emotional Toll
Prolonged pain and delay of surgery may worsen mental health. Anxiety, stress, and depression can result, along with limited activities and isolation.
Now that you understand the potential dangers of delaying knee replacement surgery, it’s time to take action and ensure optimal health and well-being.
When to Delay Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery is the last resort when all other options have failed to improve the symptoms. Your orthopedic doctor will determine whether the surgery is necessary based on the severity of your symptoms. Dr. Tarabishy is a top choice for knee replacement Spring Hill, and you can contact us for consultation or medical assistance.
When patients comply with non-surgical intervention protocols recommended by a doctor (e.g.,take prescribed medications, do physical therapy, use assistive devices), their symptoms and quality of life may improve. As a result, knee replacement surgery can be delayed.
When is it Necessary to Expedite Knee Replacement Surgery?
In certain circumstances, expediting your knee replacement surgery may be necessary. Such circumstances can be indicated with the following symptoms:
- Severe, debilitating pain and stiffness that interfere with simple activities
- Knee pain even when at rest
- Long-term knee inflammation that doesn’t respond to medications
- Bow-legged or knock-knee deformity
- No improvement of symptoms after non-surgical interventions
- Structural damage to the knee, such as a torn ligament or severe osteoarthritis
If these are present, there is no reason to delay surgery further. Doing so will only make you experience worse pain, further deformity, and poorer quality of life.
Take the First Step Towards a Healthy Future Today!
Delaying knee replacement surgery may seem like a temporary relief from the fear of surgery, but in reality, it can have severe and long-term consequences. Don’t risk your health and well-being, and take the first step towards a pain-free and active future with Dr. Tarabishy.
Dr. Tarabishy is a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and a specialist in knee arthroscopy with over 30 years of experience. He is committed to patients and offers the highest-quality treatment solutions in Brooksville, Spring Hill, Weeki Wachee, and the surrounding areas.
Don’t wait any longer – book a consultation with Dr. Tarabishy today and let our experienced team guide you towards a healthy and fulfilling life. It’s time to say goodbye to knee pain and hello to a new you!
***
The material on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
