Knee replacement surgery is one of the most common surgeries doctors suggest to restore flexibility and relieve pain in the region. While it is very effective, it is found to be shrouded in misinformation. This often impacts the patients who suffer from knee issues, increasing their anxiety about the surgery.
If you are looking to get a knee replacement in Siliguri, you must know the right facts. This will not only empower you but also help you to make informed decisions about your health. Here are 7 myths and their corresponding facts, which will help you to separate facts from fiction.
7 Myths and Facts About Knee Replacement
“You cannot bend your knee after the surgery.”
You can bend, kneel, and even squat after the knee replacement surgery. However, this is only possible after the completion of the healing. Initially, after the surgery, your movement is limited, but this doesn’t mean that you will never be able to move.
By the time you are discharged, you can bend your knee up to 70 degrees. In the early weeks of healing, you can opt for physical therapy, which can help you increase your flexibility rapidly, but it may take about a week to start seeing progress.
“Knee replacement is not for people with diabetes and high blood pressure.”
Previously, it was believed that individuals with this condition may not benefit from knee replacement surgery as they were prone to blood vessel damage and infection. However, specialists performing knee replacement surgery in Siliguri have stated that it is no longer an issue.
It has been found that people with well-maintained heart conditions can go through this surgery seamlessly. Additionally, this can also help people to regain their mobility and increase their activity, which can also help with their heart conditions.
“The benefits of knee replacement don’t last long.”
Before the advancement of technology in the medical industry, this statement used to be true. However, now knee replacements can provide comfort to patients for over 25+ years. This also largely depends on factors such as the age of the patient, their health, activity after the surgery, as well as the material of the replaced knee.
Only people who have infections or problems related to dislocation and injury require knee revision surgery. For most patients who have minimal activity, knee replacement can last a lifetime.
“Knee replacement surgery is extremely risky.”
Knee replacement surgery is safer as compared to most similar surgeries. The only risk to be worried about is the possible infection, but that is also very rare and happens to only 0.2% of people. Most of the possible risks are minimized with preoperative preparation, postsurgical care, and techniques used in surgery. Additionally, technological advancements have increased the use of methods such as computer- or robot-assisted surgeries. These make surgery for knee replacement in Siliguri more accurate and effective in treating any possible risks.
“You should wait till the pain is unbearable.”
Waiting for the pain to get worse can only hurt the overall health of a patient. Even when the pain is severe, doctors tend to analyze and monitor your condition under medication. This process can take a lot of time and take away your chance of experiencing relief quickly. The longer you wait, the more negatively your muscles and bones are affected. This can also hurt the surgical outcome. Patients who get diagnosed and treated early on have quicker recoveries and more seamless surgeries.
“The recovery takes a very long time.”
The recovery process of the knee replacement takes about 12 weeks. As compared to other complex surgeries, this is not very long. Patients can also start walking in the first week itself. With assistance and physical therapy, the recovery process can be very fast. It is also essential to understand that with proper rehabilitation, one can shorten the recovery time. Factors such as aftercare and post-surgery activities can also play a role in extending or shortening the recovery process.
“Knee replacement is only for old people.”
Age is not the only factor that impacts the knees of an individual. Candidates who undergo knee replacement surgery range from the age of 40 to the late 60s. These are often caused by trauma, early-onset arthritis, and instances of sports injury. The primary consideration is the severity of knee damage and the impact on daily life, not just age.
Conclusion
Knee replacement can be a life-changing solution for those who suffer from chronic knee pain and mobility issues. The key is to gather accurate information, consult with specialists, and make a decision based on your unique medical condition. It is important not to be distracted by hearsay and misinformation. Don’t let myths hold you back from living a pain-free life, and consult with a specialist in knee replacement in Siliguri today!
