Early Signs You May Need Knee Replacement Surgery
- Dr Vinayaraj Kelagadi
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 8 hours ago
By Dr. Vinayaraj M. Kelagadi, Orthopedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon Kossin Care, Kalyan Nagar, Bangalore
Knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, especially among adults over 40. While many knee problems can be managed with medication, physiotherapy, or lifestyle changes, some cases gradually progress to a stage where knee replacement surgery becomes the best long-term solution.
As an orthopedic surgeon specializing in joint and spine care, I often meet patients who delay treatment because they assume knee pain is just a part of aging. Unfortunately, waiting too long can lead to worsening joint damage and reduced quality of life.
Here are some early warning signs that indicate you may need to consider a knee replacement evaluation.
Persistent knee pain is not normal aging—it’s your body asking for attention. Early evaluation can restore movement and improve quality of life.— Dr. Vinayaraj M. Kelagadi
Early Signs You May Need Knee Replacement Surgery
1. Persistent Knee Pain That Doesn’t Improve
If knee pain continues despite rest, physiotherapy, medications, or injections—and interferes with daily activities—it could indicate advanced joint degeneration. Pain that disturbs sleep is another red flag.
2. Difficulty Walking or Climbing Stairs
Struggling to walk even short distances, climb stairs, or get up from a chair suggests your knee joint is no longer supporting normal movement effectively.
3. Stiffness and Reduced Range of Motion
Morning stiffness or difficulty bending and straightening the knee may be signs of cartilage loss and joint inflammation, commonly seen in osteoarthritis.
4. Swelling and Inflammation That Keeps Returning
Repeated swelling despite treatment points to chronic joint damage. This ongoing inflammation can further deteriorate the knee structure over time.
5. Knee Deformity or Bowing of Legs
Visible changes in knee alignment—such as bow-legged or knock-kneed appearance—often indicate severe wear and tear of the joint surfaces.
6. Grinding or Clicking Sensation
Hearing or feeling grinding sounds while moving your knee usually means the protective cartilage has worn away, allowing bones to rub against each other.
7. Dependence on Painkillers
If you find yourself relying on pain medications regularly just to get through the day, it’s time to seek a specialist opinion.
When Should You See an Orthopedic Surgeon?
Early consultation helps determine whether conservative treatments can still work or if surgery may offer better relief. Modern knee replacement procedures are safe, highly effective, and designed to restore mobility and comfort.
At Kossin Care, Kalyan Nagar, Bangalore, we follow a patient-centric approach—evaluating every case individually and recommending surgery only when absolutely necessary.
Life After Knee Replacement
Most patients experience:
Significant pain relief
Improved mobility
Better sleep quality
Return to daily activities
Enhanced overall quality of life
Comments