Knee replacement

Brads27

I have severe arthritis in both knees, I'm almost 70 years old.5years ago I a told I could be out on the waiting list for replacement knees,I wasn't in pain then so didn't go on the list. Now I went back to my GP and she asked if I could walk 1 mile,I said yes so she said I'll never be able to get knee replacements.

Lindaa

I had a right knee replacement beginning of April this year. The surgeon was delighted that I had kept walking as far as possible and could still manage about 1.5 miles after he had replaced my left hip 8 months prior to the knee op. Both he and the rheumatologist referred who referred me to him said it is important to keep as active as possible and walk as much as possible even when joints are wearing out. That level if fitness also they said helps recovery.

My surgeon went by the condition of the joint as shown by xray and how keen I was to live as active a life as possible. My post op review with him was last monday and he said if/when the other knee is any sort of problem get a gp referral.

Maybe it depends where you live and the criteria your hospitals use but your gp is not qualified to decide whether a joint needs doing. If my gp said that I would ask to see the policy document that says no op if you can walk a mile . 2nd Opinion needed!!

frogmorton

Oh no!

They want us to keep walking!

Go back ti your GP (with someone to support you if you can) and ask to be referred to an orthopaedic surgeon.

Sometimes we need to be a lot firmer than we want to be

Good luck!

Toni x

helpline_team

Hi @Brads27

Thank you for your posting on the online community. I see that others have responded to your post. As has already been suggested going back to your GP and asking for a referral to an orthopaedic surgeon who will be able to advise you on the surgical options and the potential pros and cons of having or delaying surgery, taking into account your age, health and level of activity. You’ll only need a knee replacement if your knee gives you pain, stiffness, instability or loss of function that affects your daily life and activities.

There are things you can do to help manage your arthritis in the meantime, including drug treatments, physiotherapy and exercise and weight loss.

I have put links below to information that may be of help to you.

 

Knee Replacement Surgery

Ways to manage pain while waiting for surgery

 

 

I hope this is helpful.

 

Best Wishes

Dawn