As we get older, our joints start to ache and creak. Wear and tear are normal with age, but sometimes that wear and tear starts to become a problem. The question is how do you know if you need a knee replacement or if your joints are just a little creaky?
The short answer to the question is, “Whenever your knee pain starts to impact your life.” Below are some signs that it’s time to talk to your doctor about getting your knee replaced.
Lack Of Mobility
One of the biggest signs that you might need a knee replacement is a lack of mobility. Being unable to move properly can impact every area of your life. Having a knee replacement can give you the ability to play with your grandkids, walk your dog, go out with your spouse, and perform chores around the house.
You may first notice that you have difficulty bending your knee or that you can’t bend it as far as you used to. You might have difficulty walking or climbing stairs, or you may not be able to get in and out of chairs and bathtubs. This stiffness might be worse in the morning; if it lasts more than thirty minutes, a knee replacement may be in order.
Persistent Pain
As your knees wear down, you may start to have more persistent pain. Living with chronic pain is miserable, and it isn’t something you have to put up with. Getting a knee replacement can help you return to a normal, pain-free life.
Your knee may start to ache after you’ve been exercising, and medication or a cane may not give you enough relief. You may notice that your knee hurts more in rainy weather. This pain might also keep you awake at night and persist over a long period of time – sometimes weeks or months.
Previous Injury Or Damage
Almost everyone’s joints degrade over time, and you may not be surprised to hear about a lot of your friends having knee replacements as they get into their golden years. But if you’ve previously injured your knee, you may be a better candidate for knee surgery. Some knee injury treatments provide relief, but they may not be long-term solutions.
If you’ve ever injured your ACL, chances are you’d be a good candidate for a knee replacement. You might also notice a grinding or grating sensation in your joint that tells you it’s time to see your doctor. With knee surgery recovery being as fast as it is today, getting your knee replaced could be the easy permanent solution you need.
Answer “How Do You Know If You Need A Knee Replacement?”
Answering the question, “How do you know if you need a knee replacement?” is something everyone has to do for themselves. But if you have persistent pain, loss of mobility, or a previous injury, it may be a good idea. Getting your knee replaced can get you back to the quality of life you had months or even years ago.
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