Knee pain can be incredibly disruptive, whether it’s making everyday tasks difficult or slowly limiting your mobility over time. But when it comes to surgery, many people hesitate. It’s natural to wonder, “How long can you delay knee replacement?” The answer depends on your condition, lifestyle, and how much the discomfort is impacting your life. Let’s break it down so you can make a confident, informed decision.
Is Delaying Knee Replacement a Good Idea?
It is important to note that not all knee pain needs an operation to be performed on it. However, most patients are able to control the symptoms for years with the help of physical therapy, medications, and changes in their diet and lifestyle. However, waiting for a long time to undergo knee replacement surgery can result in further deterioration of the joint, muscle atrophy, and poor results of the surgery in the future.
The key is to delay smartly. In this case, it is possible to maintain joint function and gain time without losing the ultimate outcome.
Exercises to Delay Knee Replacement
For those who are not yet ready for knee replacement surgery, there are great exercises that can be done to postpone the surgery. These exercises are aimed at the muscles that surround the knee joint, improving flexibility and offloading pressure on the cartilage.
Some of the most effective include:
- Quad strengthening with straight leg raises
- Hamstring curls
- Low-impact aerobic exercises such as cycling or swimming and step-ups
- Gentle yoga for joint mobility
- The calf raises to support balance and posture
To prevent injury, one should adhere to a physiotherapist-recommended schedule and stick to the plan. These exercises will not cure the joint disease, but they will help to minimise the pain and stiffness and allow you to avoid surgery safely.
When Delay Knee Replacement Becomes a Problem
However, if one opts for conservative management, it may be advisable to do so with caution because delaying may lead to other complications. If you feel that you have pain even when you are not active, or if you have stopped doing some activities that you used to do before, then it is high time to reconsider. Sometimes, joint deformities or bone-on-bone situations are difficult to treat if they are not addressed early enough.
That is why it is recommended to visit an orthopaedic specialist from time to time to evaluate the situation and consider further actions.
What About Surgical Success Later On?
Concerned about what will happen if you do not act now? The success rate of knee replacement surgery, even for patients who have postponed the surgery for several years. However, the outcomes are more favourable when the knee has some degree of motion and muscle strength. It also helps to note that early intervention is usually followed by a shorter recovery period and less pain after the operation.
The situation is even more favourable with robotic technology. Robotic surgery is less invasive and provides better accuracy in positioning the instruments, which results in less damage to the surrounding tissues, less postoperative hospitalisation, and better joint function in the long run.
Selecting the Right Surgeon is Critical
When you are in Mumbai and looking for a professional, it is important to make the right choice. It is always advisable to seek the services of a qualified robotic knee surgeon in Mumbai to get a proper diagnosis and the right advice and plan, whether to continue with the conservative treatment or opt for surgery.
Why Patients Trust Dr. Chirag Patel Mumbai
Still unsure about surgery? Let’s meet Dr. Chirag Patel Mumbai, an orthopaedic surgeon who is well-known in the city and highly regarded among his peers. He is one of the top robotic knee surgeons in Mumbai, who provides thorough consultations, genuine advice, and state-of-the-art surgeries based on the patient’s needs. With his help, patients know when to wait, when to do something, and how to get the best result.
In Conclusion
Therefore, how long can you delay knee replacement? The honest answer is that it depends on the situation. Some patients may take years to develop complications if proper care is taken, while others may require early treatment. The most important thing is to be aware of the situation, be prepared, and consult with a specialist.
To get the best treatment from the best doctor, using the latest technology and with a focus on the patient, contact Dr. Chirag Patel Mumbai. Whether you are planning to postpone or you are already willing to move to the next level, you will be in safe and expert hands.