Have you been waking up with stiff knees or finding it harder to do simple things like walking, climbing stairs, or even standing for long? If yes, you're not alone. Knee pain is one of the most common problems many Indians face, especially as they grow older. While painkillers and physiotherapy may work in the early stages, for some people, the discomfort becomes so bad that it starts affecting everyday life. That's when total knee replacement might be the right next step. 

Let's break it down in simple words so you can understand what it means and what you need to know before considering it. 

Knee replacement surgery, often called total knee replacement, is a medical procedure where a damaged or worn-out knee joint is replaced with an artificial one. These artificial parts are usually made of metal and plastic and help the knee move more smoothly and without pain.^[1]

Doctors suggest this surgery when the natural knee joint is too damaged, making movement difficult and painful even when resting. With new techniques and better materials, total knee replacement has become more successful and safer than ever before. 

Not everyone with knee pain needs surgery. But if the pain is constant and stops you from living your normal life, you may be a good candidate for total knee replacement. Here are some common reasons: 

• Severe Osteoarthritis 

This is the most common reason. As people age, the protective cartilage in the knee wears down, causing bones to rub together. This results in pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee. Osteoarthritis is very common among older adults and especially affects people who are overweight or have a history of joint stress. 

• Rheumatoid Arthritis 

This is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own joints, including the knees. Over time, it can damage the joint lining and cartilage, leading to the need for total knee replacement. 

• Old Injuries That Haven't Healed Well 

If someone had a fracture, ligament tear, or other knee injury in the past that didn't heal properly, it can lead to long-term pain and joint damage. Such cases might also need a total knee replacement, especially if mobility becomes limited. 

Here's a very basic idea of what happens during total knee replacement surgery: 

1. The patient is given anesthesia so they don't feel any pain. 

2. The surgeon makes a small cut around the knee area. 

3. The damaged parts of the knee (bone and cartilage) are removed carefully. 

4. The new artificial joint (made of metal and plastic) is fixed in place. 

5. The area is stitched up, and the recovery process begins.

The surgery usually takes about 1 to 2 hours. After that, the patient is kept under observation and slowly helped to walk again with the help of a physiotherapist. 

Over the years, total knee replacement surgery has improved a lot. Earlier, people feared long recovery times and uncertain results. But now:

• Advanced tools help in the better fitting of the artificial joint. 

• Smaller cuts mean less pain and quicker healing. 

• The new materials used last longer, often 15 to 20 years. 

• Patients can return to normal activities sooner, sometimes in just a few weeks.

Also, better post-surgery care and physical therapy help people regain movement faster and more safely. 

Recovery is one of the most important parts of a total knee replacement. It doesn't end with surgery. In fact, the real work begins after it.^[2]

• You will stay in the hospital for a few days. 

• Physiotherapy starts early, sometimes the very next day. 

• Most people can walk with support within a week or two. 

• Full recovery takes a few months, depending on your age, health, and how well you follow rehab exercises.

Your doctor will also give tips on how to care for your new knee and avoid injuries. 

Will I be able to walk normally again? 

Yes! That's the whole point. After a successful total knee replacement, many people can walk, climb stairs, and even travel, something they struggled with before. 

Is it painful? 

Like any surgery, there will be some pain, especially during recovery. But this is managed with medicines and physical therapy. Most people feel relief from their old knee pain quite quickly. 

Can it be delayed or avoided? 

If your condition is still manageable with exercises, weight loss, or physiotherapy, your doctor may delay the surgery. But if the knee is badly damaged, delaying total knee replacement may only increase discomfort and affect other parts of the body, like the spine or opposite knee. 

Does it affect the heart or other organs? 

People with heart issues or diabetes can also get this surgery, but they'll need proper screening and management. In fact, chronic knee pain can lead to reduced movement, weight gain, and even heart strain, so surgery may indirectly help other health conditions by keeping you active. 

The Freedom Knee System is a specially designed knee implant that aims to restore natural movement and comfort, especially for individuals with smaller bone structures common in Asian populations. It features a unique 7-radius design that closely mimics the natural bending and motion of the human knee, allowing for deep flexion, up to 155°, which is helpful for everyday movements like sitting on the floor or squatting. The system offers a range of sizes and requires minimal bone removal during surgery, helping surgeons achieve a precise fit while supporting a faster, smoother recovery. 

Knee pain may feel like a normal part of growing older, but it doesn't have to be something you just "live with." If you or someone in your family is dealing with constant discomfort and limited movement, it may be time to consider a total knee replacement.

With the right advice, modern medical care, and a little patience, you can walk back into a life full of movement without pain holding you back. As always, speak to a qualified orthopaedic expert and explore your options.