Many people avoid or delay knee replacement surgery simply because they lack clear information about what the procedure actually involves. Often, this is due to common myths and misunderstandings that spread fear or uncertainty about the procedure. These false beliefs can prevent patients from getting the effective treatment they need to improve their joint health and quality of life. It’s important to separate fact from fiction so you can make well-informed decisions and feel confident about taking this important step toward a more active 

future. In this article, we’ll address some of the most popular myths about knee replacement surgery and share the real facts behind them.

One common myth about knee replacement surgery is that it’s not very successful or that patients often remain in pain afterwards. In reality, knee replacement surgery is one of the most successful procedures in modern medicine, with success rates consistently above 95%¹. Numerous extensive studies have shown that patient satisfaction is also very high—around 90 to 95%² —as most individuals experience significant pain relief and improved mobility after the surgery. This evidence clearly demonstrates that knee replacement can be a highly effective solution for those suffering from severe joint issues.

Although knee replacement surgery can be painful, advances in pain relief techniques have made managing discomfort much easier for patients. Today, doctors use a combination of approaches such as regional nerve blocks, carefully timed pain medications, and personalised rehabilitation plans to control pain effectively. Most patients find that with these modern pain management strategies—including medication, physical therapy, and proper wound care—their post-surgery pain is well-controlled and manageable.  

Today's knee replacements are designed to last many years. Recent studies show that modern knee implants have excellent long-term durability.     

Knee replacements today are known to last a very long time, giving most patients lasting relief and improved mobility. Studies show that about 90 to 95 per cent  of knee implants are still working well 15 years after surgery³. Even at 20 years, around 85 to 90 per cent continue to function successfully, and at 25 years, about 80 to 85 per cent remain effective⁴.

What affects how long a knee implant lasts?

Bilateral knee replacement surgery, which involves replacing both knees at the same time, can be safely performed in carefully selected patients. When done in the right cases, it offers several benefits and can lead to a smoother recovery experience.

Who can consider bilateral knee replacement?⁵

• Patients who are less than 75 years old and in good general health

• No major heart, lung, or kidney issues

• Both arthritic knees are in a bad condition

• High recovery support system at home

Benefits of bilateral knee replacement⁵

• Single recovery period: A single process that goes under rehabilitation rather than two.

• Cost saving: Low-cost medical expenses

• Time savings: Saving of a total number of hours outside of activities and work

• Exposure to anaesthesia: exposure to just one surgery and anaesthesia

• Symmetrical recovery: Both knees for Healing.

Things to keep in mind:

• Recovery support: There is a greater need for recovery support in the beginning.

• Blood loss: There is a slightly increased risk, which should be monitored carefully

• Surgery time: An average of 2-3 hours as opposed to 1-2 hours with a single knee

Rehabilitation: Physical therapy demands great commitment

Your orthopedic surgeon will consider your age, health, and medical history before deciding if bilateral knee replacement is right for you. This is not a decision patients make alone; it should be guided by medical advice and a thorough evaluation

Medical studies consistently show that recreational running does not increase the risk of knee arthritis. In fact, moderate running may even help protect the knees when done properly.⁶

What the Research Says:

Studies on a large population show that recreational runners are less likely to be affected by knee arthritis compared to non-runners⁷

Moderate jogging seems to train around the knee joint muscles

Routine moderate exercise can even improve cartilage health.

The lifetime runners do not demonstrate higher risks of undergoing knee surgery⁷

Is Running Really to Blame for Knee Problems?

Overuse Injuries: Some runners may suffer from overuse injuries, but these are different from arthritis and are usually temporary, not permanent.