# How Do I Know When It’s Time For A Knee Replacement?

- Link: https://carolinaona.com/how-do-i-know-when-its-time-for-a-knee-replacement/
- Published: 2019-04-15T20:06:40-04:00
- Author: Dallas Clifton

# How Do I Know When It’s Time For A Knee Replacement?

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### How Do I Know When It’s Time For A Knee Replacement?

How do I know when it’s time for a knee replacement? It’s a great question. If you’re
thinking about having knee replacement surgery, you want to make sure the time is
right.

At Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA), our Board Certified
and Fellowship Trained Joint Replacement Specialists have extensive experience and
use the latest technology to perform knee replacement procedures. While there’s 
no exact timeline that indicates when you should have surgery, there are a few things
that can certainly help your decision process.

First, it’s important to understand basic knee anatomy and osteoarthritis.

## **Knee Anatomy**

The tibia (shin bone), femur (leg bone) and patella articulate to form the hinged
knee joint. Cartilage covers the articulating ends the bones so they move smoothly
without bone-on-bone rubbing. Lower body stabilization, support, and movement are
the key knee functions. Without a functional knee, patients may have a hard time
walking, running or even bearing weight.

## **Osteoarthritis and When It’s Time for a Total Knee Replacement **

Osteoarthritis causes joint inflammation and cartilage and bone deterioration. Because
the knee is a large weight-bearing joint, knee osteoarthritis is common. Aging, 
accidents, and injuries are knee osteoarthritis causes. Symptoms include:

 * Decreased range of motion
 * Difficulty weight bearing
 * Pain
 * Stiffness
 * Swelling

Symptoms usually present mildly and increase in severity if osteoarthritis isn’t
treated, which is why an early diagnosis is important. Patients are encouraged to
make an appointment with a Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA)
Joint Replacement Specialist when symptoms won’t go away on their own or don’t respond
to rest, activity modification, ice, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications.

After an official diagnosis is made, a customized treatment plan is prescribed. 
It may include:

Assistive devices

 * Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
 * Physical therapy
 * Injections

These treatment options effectively treat the majority of knee osteoarthritis cases.

_When treatment options are not effective and symptoms limit a patient’s ability
to perform normal day-to-day activities, it may be time for a knee replacement._

Most patients who have total knee replacement surgery have bone-on-bone rubbing 
that is easily seen on x-rays. The CONA specialist will explain the surgery and 
recovery, so you know exactly what to expect. Total knee replacement is one of the
most popular and effective orthopedic surgeries because it dramatically improves
pain and other symptoms and helps patients live normal lives with minimal restrictions.

## Make an Appointment⏎  with A CONA Specialist!

At Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA), our Board Certified
and Fellowship Trained Joint Replacement Specialists, Dr. Gerald Rollins, and Dr.
Daniel Gerscovich are experts in knee arthritis.

If you are having symptoms of knee arthritis, we encourage you to make an appointment
at one of our convenient locations in Spartanburg, Greenville and Duncan, SC.

We provide total quality care for your optimal health!

 [Schedule An Appointment](https://carolinaona.com/appointment-request-form/)

### what Our Patients Are Saying

## Read Their Success Stories

I am happy with this practice all my questions are answered within 24 hours. Dr.
Hoenig is great, his bedside manner is wonderful, he is very thorough, and makes
personal calls after surgery to check on patients. I would definitely recommend 
to family and friends!

 Tori S.

Dr. Hoenig

This has been one of my most positive experiences at a Dr's office. I was treated
with respect and love. They made my surgical procedure less stressful and very positive.

 Mindy U.

General Practice

These are the best group of doctors that myself & my family have ever been treated
by in this field of medicine. They listen to how you feel instead of telling you
how you feel. Thank you all for your caring & kindness.

 Lori L.

General Practice