The decision to have knee replacement surgery is not one to be taken lightly. Knee replacement is a major surgical procedure that can take six months to a year to achieve a full recovery. While it is an effective treatment for permanent pain relief, most doctors consider knee replacement a last resort and recommend a number of minimally invasive treatments to try first. If you’ve suffered from knee pain for any significant amount of time, chances are you relish the idea of eliminating your pain for good. But how do you know if knee replacement surgery is the best option? Take a look below at the following four signs that you may need a knee replacement. 

You have chronic pain 

Unless you’ve sustained an injury, knee pain doesn’t usually show up overnight. More often, you’ll notice it while walking, running, or during some other form of exercise. In the beginning, the pain may subside with rest and over-the-counter pain medication, but over time, you may find yourself in pain more often, during everyday activities, or even during resting periods. If pain is frequent and long-lasting, it may be a sign that it’s time to consider knee replacement surgery. 

Nothing seems to help

Knee replacement surgery should never be the first line of defense. Before you commit to surgery, your doctor will likely recommend a number of conservative treatments to address your pain and functioning.  These may include over-the-counter pain medications, weight loss and exercise, physical therapy, cortisone injections, or hyaluronic acid injections. If, however, these methods fail to eliminate your pain or restore your functioning, your doctor may recommend a knee replacement.

Severe arthritis has damaged your tissue

Severe arthritis can cause significant damage to your joints and tissues. It may result in the development of bone spurs, bone on bone contact, and other conditions that cause swelling, inflammation, stiffness, and debilitating pain. If X-rays reveal significant enough damage, a total knee replacement may be recommended. 

Your quality of life has decreased 

Living with severe joint pain limits a person’s ability to perform basic tasks and participate in an active lifestyle. Exercise and independent living are two vital aspects of maintaining optimal physical and mental health, and without them, the quality of life can decrease significantly. If your joint pain is keeping you from participating in the activities that you enjoy, it may be time to talk to your doctor about knee replacement surgery. 

Orthopedic Rehabilitation in San Diego 

If you do decide to undergo knee replacement surgery, you’ll want a strong orthopedic rehabilitation program to help get you through the recovery process and back to your best life as quickly as possible. At Bella Vista Health Center, our team of medical professionals and highly skilled specialists will customize a treatment plan designed to help you build strength and endurance, improve your balance and coordination, optimize your range of motion, and restore your ability to perform daily tasks and participate in your favorite activities. 

Depending on your particular needs, your treatment plan may involve some combination of physical therapy, occupational therapy, orthotics, and nutritional counseling. We also offer a range of amenities and services designed to help keep you comfortable and engaged during your stay at our 5-Star skilled nursing facility. For more information on our orthopedic rehab programs, please give us a call or visit us in Lemon Grove today.