KNEE ARTHRITIS - Total Knee Replacement :

How to avoid TKR?? - - Posted by pomo2000 (pomo2000), 1 November 2004

I have early stage OA in one knee.

I am just wondering if it is inevitable to have to have a TKR if the OA progresses?

Is it possible to avoid it, with some alternative treatment, or is just putting up with OA an option? Is it still possible to walk with severe OA?

I'm in my 30s, and since TKR doesn't last that long, I'm wondering what my options are if the OA gets worse.

Thanks
Posted by travis50 (travis50), 6 November 2004

From one who is now 10 days post TKR, Believe me you will know when the time is right to have TKR. It is all dependent upon the amount of pain you are suffering. If it is tollerable or can be controlled with medication, then my advice would be to put off TKR for as long as you can. Another factor is how much internal displacement you have in your knee, ie. how much your leg bows outward. As for TKR not lasting long, you need to seek advice from a good Orthopeadic consultant. Common belief is that current implants have a short life. This is not exactly true. There a a number of variations available. My particular implant is specifically designed for younger people..I am 50 but, very active up untill the last 6-8 months. I am confident that I will be able to return to an active life without the fear of my implant wearing out..I would shop around for your O consultant. Depending on where you live. Are you UK or USA. I hope this is of help. If I can help further please ask...Take care..  Trav

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