Total Knee Replacement: What You Need to Know Before and After Surgery

When your knee hurts so badly that walking, climbing stairs, or even standing up feels impossible, total knee replacement, a surgical procedure where damaged knee joint surfaces are replaced with artificial components. Also known as knee arthroplasty, it’s one of the most common and successful orthopedic surgeries in India, helping over 100,000 people each year regain mobility and reduce chronic pain. This isn’t just for older adults—people in their 50s and 60s with severe arthritis, a condition where joint cartilage breaks down, causing bone-on-bone friction and inflammation are often the best candidates. The goal isn’t to make your knee feel like it did at 20, but to give you back the ability to live without constant pain.

Before surgery, doctors check for more than just X-rays. They look at your weight, heart health, diabetes control, and even your mental readiness. If you’re overweight, losing even 5–10% of your body weight can cut complications in half. If you smoke, quitting for at least 4 weeks before surgery improves healing. And if you’re on blood thinners or have kidney issues, your team will adjust your meds. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all procedure. Your surgeon will tailor the implant size, alignment, and approach based on your bone structure and lifestyle. After surgery, recovery isn’t just about resting. Physical therapy starts the same day—standing, walking with support, and bending your knee gently. Most people walk without a cane by 4–6 weeks. The biggest mistake? Stopping exercises too soon. The new knee needs movement to stay flexible and strong.

Some people worry about the risks: infection, blood clots, or the implant wearing out. While these can happen, they’re rare—especially in well-run hospitals in India where infection rates are below 1%. Most implants last 15–20 years, and many patients stay active with walking, swimming, or cycling. But high-impact sports like running or jumping are discouraged. You’ll also need to tell every doctor you see—from dentists to dermatologists—that you have a knee replacement. Some procedures require antibiotics to prevent infection from spreading to the implant.

What you won’t find in brochures? The emotional side. Many feel anxious before surgery. Some feel frustrated during recovery. Others feel guilty for needing help. These feelings are normal. You’re not alone. In fact, the posts below include real stories from people who’ve been through it—what surprised them, what helped them heal faster, and what they wish they’d known. Whether you’re considering the surgery, preparing for it, or helping someone who is, you’ll find practical advice here—not theory, not marketing. Just what works.