Dameron Hospital | Health Outlook | Spring 2020

from severe knee arthritis pain that is inhibiting the patient’s ability to stand or walk. Knee arthritis develops when the smooth cartilage that cushions the knee joint wears away. Normally, knee cartilage serves as a cushion between the thighbone, shinbone and kneecap and allows for smooth motion of the knee. When it wears away, the knee becomes stiff, swollen and painful. Eventually, the cartilage can wear down to the bone, and the bones begin rubbing against one another, causing more pain. When arthritis becomes severe enough and treatments If nonsurgical treatments like anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, cortisone shots, walking supports and knee braces are not helpful, total knee replacement surgery may be an appropriate option for you. The surgery is a safe and effective way to relieve leg pain, correct any joint deformities and help you improve the quality of your life so you can get back to normal activities. Warning signs that may indicate you need knee replacement surgery include: •   Stiff and swollen knees. •   Constant pain throughout the day, even at rest. •   Difficulty walking, getting up or climbing stairs. •   Chronic knee inflammation and swelling that does not improve with rest or medications. •   No signs of pain relief, even with therapy. •   Noticeable deformities, such as the knee bowing in or out. •   Bone-on-bone grinding, when the knee cartilage is so damaged and worn that your joints are making noises when they scrape together. Total knee replacements have been performed successfully for patients of all ages, from the young teenager with juvenile arthritis to the elderly patient with degenerative arthritis, but most patients are between the ages of 55 and 80. Recommendations for surgery are based more on a patient’s pain level and disability than on their age. If you feel you may be a candidate for total knee replacement surgery, talk to your doctor and have them refer you to an orthopedic surgeon to determine if you could benefit from the procedure. You can also sign up for one of Dameron’s free knee replacement informational seminars to learn more. to decrease the swelling and pain are no longer effective, total knee replacement is considered. You don’t have to live with severe knee pain and the limitations it may put on your activities. If you haven’t experienced adequate relief with medications or other conservative treatments, a total knee replacement may offer you the pain relief you need. Talk to your doctor or attend one of our free seminars to find out more. Free informational seminars If you are experiencing chronic knee pain and considering the Rapid Strides program, Dameron Hospital hosts free, no-obligation seminars . During these thorough information sessions, you can weigh your treatment options, gain clarity on whether you are a candidate for the Rapid Strides program, meet the medical staff and ask questions about the total knee replacement procedure. Is knee replacement surgery for me? Reasons why you might consider a total knee replacement Free knee replacement seminars! To register, go to DameronHospital.org/Calendar . DameronHospital.org • Health Outlook  13