Orthopedic Evaluation for Knee Replacement: Questions and What to Know

Healthy knees are necessary for balance and to do several daily activities.  Knee pain can significantly impact the way you enjoy your life, particularly if it’s limiting your ability to sleep, walk and perform everyday activities. When medication and traditional methods of knee treatment no longer help in damage control, a knee replacement can be the best and safest option to relieve pain and deformity.

Before a total knee replacement, you will be asked to do some tests to confirm that you are a suitable candidate for the operation. The pre-operation assessment will be done a few weeks before the operation.

At times, you may be asked to do pre-operation strengthening exercises or lose weight before the operation to improve surgery outcomes.

Why an orthopaedic evaluation is important?

Knee replacement surgery is a significant procedure, and a proper diagnosis is important for a positive outcome. The orthopaedic examination assists:

• Confirm the severity and cause of your knee pain
• Determine if surgery is needed and the cause of your knee pain
• Create a tailored surgical and recovery plan.

What to Expect During the Evaluation

1. Review medical history

Your orthopaedic surgeon will first access your symptoms, lifestyle and overall health.

Be prepared for these questions:

• How long have you experienced knee pain?
• What makes it worse?
• Have you tried physical therapy, injections or medications?
• Do you have any other joint problems or health conditions?

Be honest and thorough – even small details can impact your treatment plan.

• How long have you experienced knee pain?
• What makes it worse?
• Have you used physical therapy, drugs or injections?
• Do you have other joint issues or medical conditions?

Be accurate and clear because even little things can affect your treatment routine.  

2. Physical Examination

The physician then will physically examine your knee. They will check:

• Range of motion
• Inflammation or swelling
• Stability and strength
• Gait and alignment when walking

This physical evaluation provides important insights into the extent of joint damage and functional impairment.

3. Imaging tests

Diagnostic imaging is important in confirming the need for knee replacement. You can be given:

• X-ray: To determine joint space narrowing, bone deformity or arthritis advancement.
• MRI or CT scans: When soft tissue damage or intricate alignment needs greater understanding.

Questions to ask your Orthopaedic surgeon

Asking your doctor the right questions on the day of your assessment can help you make informed decisions. Here are some important ones to ask:

• What is the precise reason behind my knee pain?
• Are there any neuro-surgical options I can attempt first?
• Am I an ideal candidate for total or partial knee replacement?
• What are the complications or risks of surgery?
• How many knee replacement surgeries have you conducted?
• What implant would you suggest and why?
• What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process?

Evaluation Preparation: Know How to prepare yourself

• Bring medical records: This includes previous imaging, a medication list and previous treatments.
• Note your symptoms: A pain diary can be helpful to know the frequency and magnitude of your pain.
• List your goals: Do you want to resume sports? Pain-free walking? Knowing your goals assists in customizing your treatment.

Knee replacement is usually recommended when:

• Pain hinders daily activities
• You have low mobility despite physical therapy or injections
• X-rays reveal severe joint degeneration
• Quality of life is severely compromised

State-of-the-art rehabilitation at the best orthopedic hospital in India

Choosing Ujala Cygnus Hospital for your knee replacement surgery is selecting the best orthopaedic hospital in Haldwani**** where superior infrastructure combines with empathetic, patient-centric care. With cutting-edge rehabilitation and surgical procedures and a team of highly expert multidisciplinary experts, Ujala Cygnus is the best ortho hospital in India, offering smooth and successful recovery.

Ujala Cygnus is the orthopedic best hospital in India providing excellent treatments, unparalleled clinical expertise and the reassurance of knowing you are under the care of the best leaders in knee treatment.