How Long Does A Knee Replacement Last
Knee replacements are common yet tricky procedures. Doctors normally advise people who are suffering from severe cases of joint arthritis to get knee replacements done so that they can live their lives comfortably. If your doctor has advised you to get a knee replacement, you should ask him a number of questions to make sure you are clear about the procedure and the effect it will have on your life. These include:
1. What does the procedure entail?
2. Are there any viable options other than a knee replacement?
3. How long does a knee replacement last?
There are a number of different factors that help determine the answer to the third question. As a result, doctors are normally reluctant to give a specific period of time that your knee replacement will last. Having said that, studies suggest that most knee replacements last at least twenty years, and many go on to function smoothly for longer periods of time. There are certain factors that may help increase how long does a knee replacement last.
How old is the patient?
If you get a knee replacement done at a younger age, you might need to get it redone when you’re older. Some doctors believe people who get knee replacements under the age of 55 normally require a new knee later in their life. Not only are young people more active, but they also have more time ahead of them.
How heavy is the patient?
A very important function of the knee is to hold up the weight of the body. It is no surprise that the answer to how long does a knee replacement last lies in the weight of the patient. If you want your knee replacement to last and you are currently obese, you should begin to exercise. However, it is important to be careful about which exercises you perform. It is best to consult your doctor in this regard.
How active is the patient?
The level of activeness of the person who has gotten a knee replacement is essential to take into account when determining an answer to the question: how long does a knee replacement last? The general rule of thumb is that knee replacement patients have to avoid certain activities that place a high degree of stress on the knee as much as possible.
As long as one refrains from unusually strenuous activities such as running up flights of stairs, their knee replacement should last at least twenty years.
Which implant is the patient getting?
While you are looking for the answer to the question how long does a knee replacement last, you should start looking at different implants out there. Since medical technology continues to evolve, it is important to put in that extra amount of time to choosing the right implants. An orthopedic doctor is normally the best person to seek advice from, but you should not limit your consults to just one doctor. Also keep in mind that just because a particular implant is newer does not mean it is better.
