Knee Replacement Myths Busted: Get the Facts Before Surgery

Knee pain from arthritis or injury can drastically affect your mobility and quality of life. For many, Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is the most effective solution to relieve pain and restore function. However, the decision to undergo knee replacement surgery often comes with anxiety, hesitation — and unfortunately, a lot of myths.

In this post, Dr. Harshad Jadhav, a seasoned orthopedic surgeon with more than 13 years of experience in joint replacement treatment, dispels knee replacement myths so that you can take an educated, confident decision about your well-being.

Myth 1: Knee replacement is for old people

Fact: Age isn’t the key factor — the severity of knee damage is. Although knee replacement is often done in individuals over 60, anyone with severe arthritis, injury, or mobility problems can benefit regardless of age. The most important factor is how much it affects your everyday life, not how old you are.

Myth 2: You must wait until you cannot walk at all

Fact: If surgery is delayed too long, it can cause joint deformity, muscle loss, and additional loss of mobility. Early treatment usually yields more favorable results and recovery times. When conservative treatments stop working and your knee pain is becoming a hindrance to your lifestyle, it’s best to do something about it now.

Myth 3: The operation is terribly painful and risky

Fact: Knee replacement with contemporary surgical methods, anesthesia, and pain management after surgery is much less painful than individuals anticipate. It’s a safe and well-proven procedure. Dr. Harshad Jadhav employs modern techniques and minimally invasive methods to cause the least loss of blood, reduce chances of complications, and have a problem-free recovery.

Myth 4: Artificial knees don’t last long

Fact: Most knee replacements with current implants and with proper post-op treatment endure 15–20 years or more. Patients live active, pain-free lives for decades following surgery. Survival depends on level of activity, weight control, and follow-up treatment.

Myth 5: You won’t be able to walk normally again

Fact: Knee replacement surgery is specifically designed to restore normal function. Most patients are able to walk independently within a few days and return to normal activities in 6–8 weeks. With proper physiotherapy and rehabilitation, many patients even return to light sports and long-distance walking.

Myth 6: Recovery is too long and difficult

Fact: Although each recovery process is unique, patients undergoing knee replacements today recover much more quickly than they used to. Thanks to improved recovery techniques, many patients can walk on the same day or following day after surgery. Regular physiotherapy and aftercare are essential to guarantee a full and prompt recovery.

Myth 7: Both knees can’t be replaced at the same time

Fact: For those with severe arthritis in both knees, bilateral knee replacement (both knees replaced in one operation) is absolutely feasible. Dr. Harshad Jadhav assesses every patient’s health and fitness before suggesting this option. Done in the appropriate setting, it can save time, money, and recovery effort.

Myth 8: You can’t do physical activities after knee replacement

Fact: With complete recovery, the majority of patients resume an active lifestyle — walking, cycling, swimming, yoga, and even trekking are feasible. Although high-impact sports (such as football or running) are generally eschewed in order to protect the implant, your mobility and confidence will increase significantly after surgery.

Conclusion

Knee replacement is one of the most successful and life-changing orthopedic procedures. But false information can postpone treatment and further exacerbate your situation. You can anticipate a pain-free, active, and independent lifestyle with the appropriate surgeon, individualized care, and appropriate rehabilitation.

If you have chronic knee pain or stiffness, don’t hesitate. Dr. Harshad Jadhav is a highly experienced orthopedic surgeon based in Mumbai, with over 13 years of expertise in performing successful Total Knee Replacement, Total Hip Replacement, Arthroscopy, and Trauma Surgeries. Known for his precision and patient-focused care, Dr. Jadhav is dedicated to helping patients regain mobility and live pain-free, independent lives.