Medically reviewed by Dr. L. Bharath , Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Bharath Orthopaedics
Knee pain can gradually affect many parts of everyday life. Walking, climbing stairs, getting up from a chair, standing for long periods or even sleeping comfortably may become difficult. For some people, the discomfort begins occasionally. For others, it becomes persistent and starts limiting their independence.
One common cause of long-term knee pain is osteoarthritis. This condition involves gradual changes in the cartilage and other structures of the knee joint. As the joint changes, a person may experience pain, stiffness, swelling and difficulty moving the knee.
People searching for a knee replacement surgeon in India often want to understand whether their symptoms indicate advanced joint damage, whether surgery is necessary, what alternatives are available and what recovery may involve.
Knee replacement is one possible treatment for selected patients with significant knee joint damage. However, it is not necessary for every person with knee pain. The decision depends on the underlying diagnosis, severity of symptoms, examination findings, overall health and response to other treatments.
What is Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a procedure in which damaged joint surfaces are replaced with artificial components.
The aim is to reduce pain arising from the damaged joint and improve knee function. The procedure may be considered when arthritis or other joint damage has significantly affected daily activities and non-surgical treatments have not provided sufficient relief.
There are different types of knee replacement procedures:
Total Knee Replacement
In total knee replacement, the damaged joint surfaces are replaced with artificial components. It may be considered when arthritis affects several parts of the knee joint.
Partial Knee Replacement
Partial knee replacement may be an option when damage is limited to one compartment of the knee and the remaining structures are suitable for this procedure.
Revision Knee Replacement
Revision surgery may be considered when a previous knee replacement develops a problem, such as implant loosening, wear, infection or instability. The reason for the problem must be evaluated before further treatment is planned.
The choice of procedure depends on the condition of the knee and the findings of the clinical assessment.
Dr. Bharath Loganathan – Knee Replacement Surgeon in India
Dr. Bharath Loganathan is an orthopaedic surgeon based in Chennai with over 20 years of clinical experience. His clinical practice includes the assessment and management of knee and hip conditions, primary joint replacement and revision joint replacement procedures.
His academic qualifications include:
- MBBS – Stanley Medical College, Chennai
- MS in Orthopaedic Surgery – Grant Medical College and JJ Group of Hospitals, Mumbai
- MRCS – Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
He has also undertaken advanced training and fellowship programmes in adult joint reconstruction and hip and knee replacement surgery, including the Ranawat Adult Joint Reconstruction Fellowship and Rothman Ranawat Travel Fellowship.
His areas of orthopaedic practice include total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, revision knee replacement, hip replacement and the assessment of other musculoskeletal conditions.
Treatment recommendations are based on the patient’s symptoms, medical history, physical examination and relevant investigations. Where appropriate, non-surgical treatment options are considered before surgery.
Consultation locations
- Bharath Orthopaedics, Rajaratnam Street, Kilpauk, Chennai – 600010.
- Sri Singhvi Health Centre, TVH Lumbini Square, Bricklin Road, Purasaiwalkam, Chennai – 600007.
- Amrit Medical Center, Dr. Alagappa Road, Purasaiwalkam, Chennai – 600084.
Contact: 044 4799 2728
For consultation availability and timings, patients can refer to the clinic’s contact information.
What are the Common Signs That May Require Knee Evaluation?
Knee symptoms can have several causes. Some commonly reported symptoms include:
- Pain while walking, standing or climbing stairs.
- Stiffness after sitting or resting.
- Swelling around the knee joint.
- Difficulty bending or straightening the knee.
- A feeling of instability while walking.
- Reduced walking distance because of discomfort.
- Pain that interferes with sleep or routine activities.
These symptoms do not automatically mean that knee replacement is required. A proper assessment is necessary to identify the cause.
Sudden severe pain, a hot or red swollen knee, fever with joint pain, or inability to bear weight after an injury requires prompt medical assessment.
What Causes Knee Joint Damage?
Several conditions can affect the knee joint. The most common include:
1. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition in which cartilage and other joint structures gradually change. It can cause pain, stiffness and reduced movement.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition that can affect the lining of the joint and gradually damage joint structures.
3. Previous Knee Injury
Certain fractures, ligament injuries and other forms of joint trauma can contribute to long-term knee problems.
4. Post-Traumatic Arthritis
Arthritis may develop following an injury that has affected the joint surface or its supporting structures.
The underlying cause, rather than the symptom alone, helps determine the appropriate treatment.
Can Knee Pain Be Treated Without Surgery?
Yes. Many people with knee pain can be managed without knee replacement, depending on the diagnosis and severity of the condition.
Non-surgical treatment may include:
- Physiotherapy and exercises to improve strength and joint movement.
- Weight management when excess body weight contributes to joint loading.
- Activity modification to reduce aggravating movements.
- Medicines for pain or inflammation when medically appropriate.
- Walking aids when required.
- Selected injections in appropriate clinical circumstances.
The benefits and limitations of each treatment should be discussed with the treating doctor. No single treatment is suitable for every patient.
When is Knee Replacement Surgery Considered?
Knee replacement may be considered when a patient has substantial joint damage, persistent pain and difficulty with daily activities despite appropriate non-surgical management.
The decision should not be based only on an X-ray or a person’s age. The patient’s symptoms, functional limitations, medical fitness, expectations and preferences are important.
Before deciding on surgery, patients should understand:
- The reason surgery is being considered.
- The expected benefits and limitations.
- The possible complications and risks.
- Available non-surgical alternatives.
- The type of implant and procedure being proposed.
- The rehabilitation and follow-up requirements.
A discussion with the treating orthopaedic surgeon helps patients make an informed decision.
What Happens During Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement is performed in an operating theatre under an appropriate anaesthesia plan. The damaged joint surfaces are prepared, and artificial components are positioned to restore the joint surfaces and alignment as planned.
The surgical approach, implant selection and anaesthesia plan depend on the patient’s anatomy, diagnosis and medical condition.
Patients should discuss the proposed procedure and its specific risks with their surgeon before giving consent.
What is the Recovery Process After Knee Replacement?
Recovery varies from person to person. It depends on general health, muscle strength, the condition of the joint before surgery, the type of procedure and participation in rehabilitation.
After surgery, the care team generally guides the patient through:
- Pain management and wound care.
- Early movement as advised by the treating team.
- Walking with appropriate support.
- Physiotherapy and prescribed exercises.
- Gradual improvement in daily activities.
- Follow-up visits to assess healing and knee function.
Some people progress faster than others. It is important not to compare recovery with another patient’s experience or expect a guaranteed recovery timeline.
What Should You Ask Before Choosing a Knee Replacement Surgeon in India?
Before proceeding with treatment, patients may find it useful to ask:
- What is the exact cause of my knee pain?
- Is my condition suitable for non-surgical treatment?
- Why is knee replacement being considered in my case?
- Would partial or total knee replacement be appropriate?
- What are the possible risks and complications?
- What rehabilitation will I need after surgery?
- What follow-up care should I expect?
Patients should also verify the surgeon’s recognised medical qualifications and registration details and understand where the procedure will be performed.
A Patient-Centred Approach to Knee Care
Knee pain can affect mobility, work, sleep and everyday independence. Understanding the cause of the problem is the first step towards choosing an appropriate treatment.
Knee replacement is not the only option for knee pain, and it is not required in every case of arthritis. A careful clinical assessment helps determine whether medication, physiotherapy, activity modification or surgery may be appropriate.