A Patient's Guide to Knee Replacement by iHealthSpot

iHealthSpot builds websites for health care providers that include patient education. This video discusses a Knee Replacement procedure and is part of iHealthSpot's Orthopedic Library. Ask your doctor to include iHealthSpot.com patient education on their website!

The knee is the largest joint in our body. It is one to the most easily injured joints. Knee problems can occur from injury, aging, wear and tear, or disease, such as arthritis.

Arthritis causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. It can affect the cartilage in the knee joint. Cartilage is a very tough, shock absorbing material that covers the ends of many of our bones. The cartilage forms a smooth surface and allows the bones in our joints to glide easily during motion. Arthritis can cause the cartilage to wear away. Loss of the protective lining can cause painful bone on bone rubbing.

While the symptoms of knee arthritis may be tolerated with some medications and lifestyle adjustments, for many, knee replacement is the only way to reduce pain, restore function, and improve the quality of life. Knee Replacement Surgery, also called Knee Arthroplasty, involves removing the damaged portion of the knee and replacing it with artificial implants called prosthetics. Knee Arthroplasty is the most common type of joint replacement surgery. It is highly successful for relieving pain and restoring joint function.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• orthopedics
• knee replacement
• knee surgery