Can I Have Total Knee Replacement at My Age?

Total knee replacement surgery in Little Rock, Arkansas, can be a game changer for seniors with osteoarthritis or those injured in sports or motor vehicle accidents. If you’re suffering with pain, limited mobility, and other symptoms related to your knee, learn about this state-of-the-art procedure and if, at your age, you could qualify for it.

What is Total Knee Replacement Surgery?

According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, doctors performed over 600,000 total knee arthroplasties in the US alone in 2014. This inpatient procedure involves removal of diseased and damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint, including the ends of the thigh bone and shin bone, as well as the inner surface of the knee cap.

To make the knee joint fully functional once again, the surgeon replaces the deteriorated surfaces with components made of biocompatible metals and plastics. For people who have suffered years with osteoarthritis, the most common reason for knee degradation and malfunction, knee arthroplasty can restore:

• Range of motion and flexibility
• Pain-free mobility and function
• Independence

How Will My Orthopedic Surgeon in Little Rock Evaluate My Knee?

Your orthopedic specialist will inspect your knee, watch you walk, carefully note your symptoms, and order specialized imaging to visualize the inner structures of your knee joint. These diagnostic tests tell the doctor the location and degree of your knee problem.

Also, be specific about your ability to do activities of daily living, including climbing stairs, squatting, and lifting. These factors, combined with your medical history, determine if total knee replacement is best or if more conservative measures, such as weight control, pain management medications, physical therapy, and assistive devices, would prove more helpful.

Is Age a Factor When Considering Joint Replacement Surgery?

The answer is both yes and no. Most people who undergo knee arthroplasty are over the age of 60. Likely, they will require the surgery only once as most knee prosthetics last 15 to 20 years, or even longer. However, if you are significantly younger when you undergo surgery, you could require another replacement procedure in the future.

Also, while there is no real upper age limit for this orthopedic surgery, consider the impact aging has on overall health. If you opt for more conservative treatments for knee pain and postpone surgery, your recovery from treatments will be shorter and less intense. When you opt for surgery, especially if you are of significant age, you run the risk of age-related health conditions that could complicate your recovery. Recovery from knee surgery takes time, endurance, and persistence.

Bring Your Questions to Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

In Little Rock, Arkansas, Dr. William Hefley is the total knee replacement expert. As an experienced and board-certified orthopedic surgeon, he has helped scores of people regain their mobility and independence through state-of-the-art, non-surgical treatments and total joint replacement surgery. Find out how Dr. Hefley and his team can assist you.

Call Bowen Hefley Orthopedics at (501) 663-6455 or (501) 771-1600 to arrange a consultation. If you prefer, arrange your appointment through our online request form.