11:43
Today's web chat is focused on knee replacement and knee pain. We're looking forward to answering your questions beginning at noon! 12:03
[Comment From Louise ] I had a total knee done in 2003. Because of poor care from my doc I have not seen anyone for five years. I have always had pain and swelling.I really am not crazy about another surgery. What does a repeat surgery entail. 12:06
This is a difficult question to answer. There are a number of reasons why a knee replacement can be painful, and the surgical solution would potentially vary, depending on the nature of the problem. I would advise you to see an orthopedic surgeon to have a thorough evaluation, including current X-rays. Sometimes painful knee replacements can be effectively treated non-surgically. 12:08
Welcome everyone! Today's Web chat is being hosted by Dr. Tim Schultz, Orthopedic Surgeon from Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin and Chris Shaw, RN MS, Clinical Nurse Specialist from ProHealth Care. 12:08
[Comment From Jeff ] i have the wearing of cartilage on my knees. Is there a non-surgical approach to correct? Thanks! 12:13
There are non-surgical ways, such as physical therapy, medications and injections, to help control the pain and inflammation associated with worn cartilage (arthritis); however, there are no known treatments that reliably regenerate cartilage for large areas of cartilage loss. In the future, it is hoped that with further research into areas such as gene therapy, that cartilage regeneration might be a possibility. This is probably a number of years away, however. 12:14
[Comment From Todd ] I'm having a double full knee replacement surgery in October how long before I can start moving around with confidence and being able to walk up and down stairs and walking in snow to shovel or snowblowing? 12:22
Your surgeon will undoubtedly have you begin walking by the first day after surgery, using either crutches or a walker. Progress from there is really quite dependent on the individual situation. In general, however, many people have gotten rid of assistive walking devices, such as a cane, by six weeks. Usually by three months, most people are able to get back to more vigorous daily activities, although I counsel my patients that it will probably take at least a year to reach a healing plateau. All throughout that year, though, you can expect progressive improvement, so don't get discouraged. 12:24
[Comment From Lara ] I am very over weight. I walked bone on bone. It is extremely painful. I need knee replacements, but my doctor wants me to loose about 100lbs. it is difficult to do, when I can't get exercise. What can I do? I need help. What do you suggest? 12:28
Thanks for your question. We recommend seeing your primary care doctor and a dietician to begin a safe weight loss program. You might want to consider swimming/water aerobics because of the decreased impact it has on painful joints. Stationary biking might be an option for you, as long as you don't have knee pain during the cycling motion. Before beginning any exercise program, make sure you talk with your primary care physician. Also, your primary care physician may talk with you about weight loss medications and/or bariatric surgery options. 12:29
[Comment From Sue ] I have had 2 knee surgeries a lateral release and a patella tendon debridement in 2007. Have no arthritis but am i n constant pain considering partial knee replacement of patella. Good idea? 12:36
It's interesting that you should ask that, actually. I just completed a partial knee replacement involving the kneecap compartment, utilizing the newest technology in robotic-assisted partial knee replacement (called MAKOplasty). Today, this is offered only through ProHealth Care and Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin. Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital is the first and only hospital in the State of Wisconsin that offers partial knee replacement using robotic technology. You may be a candidate for partial knee replacement, but it really depends on a more detailed orthopedic evaluation. It's possible that a partial knee replacement will effectively relieve your pain. 12:37
[Comment From Rich ] I had a total knee replacement in 2003 and had to have it redone in December of 2008. Since my original surgery I cannot kneel on it without significent pain. Will I ever be able to kneel on it pain free? If so when? The second surgery was due to a worn out pad which made my knee loose. I know my other knee is going to need surgery eventually but I don't want to have it done if it's anything like the first knee. Thanks for taking my question. 12:39
In my experience, more often than not, patients with knee replacements tend to find it uncomfortable to kneel. I don't prohibit kneeling after knee replacement, but recommend kneeling on something soft, such as a cushion, knee pad, or folded blanket. Ultimately, however, I advise my patients to let their symptoms be their guide. 12:40
[Comment From John ] How long should I endure knee pain before I go to the doctor? 12:44
It's really an issue of your decision as to your level of pain and limitations you are willing to tolerate. There are many options, which could alleviate your pain and allow you to continue on with your typical daily activities. A good diagnosis regarding the source of your knee pain and a subsequent treatment plan is highly recommended. There are some causes of knee pain that are very treatable and even reversable and may not require a surgical procedure. 12:44
[Comment From Cheryl ] I will be having a 'partial' knee replacement... does a partial replacement work? and is the healing process the same as a full replacement? 12:54
Partial knee replacement can be extremely effective. In general, recovery after partial knee replacement is quicker and easier than total knee replacement. In fact, with the use of the newest robotic technology (called MAKOplasty), we are seeing significantly shorter hospital stays, remarkably quicker recovery, less pain -- patients have been very satisfied. Using the robot allows us to use the latest techniques for minimally-invasive partial knee replacement. We're excited about this at Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin, where eight of our surgeons are the first and only providers of this latest technology in the whole state. Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital is the only hospital where this is offered. If you're considering this procedure, I'd encourage you to learn more about this technology. 12:56
[Comment From Lara ] What are the pros and cons about having both knees done at the same time? 1:01
This is somewhat of a controversial topic. Most studies do not clearly show a significant difference in complication rate when both knees are done at once, provided there are not medical contraindications. In my experience, the one difference is the more common need for a blood transfusion when both knees are done at once. In general, my patients who have both knees done at once are ultimately very thankful that they don't need to go through a second surgery. This is a personal decision and one that should be discussed with your orthopedist. 1:02
[Comment From Deb ] My husband is 40 years old, scheduled for bilateral full knee replacements. Will the surgery correct the altered gait and bowlegged-ness he has developed the past ten years? We're confident he should be able to return to full function. 1:03
In general, the bowed deformity should be corrected to a very slight knock kneed alignment. This distributes the weight more evenly through the implant. I would expect his gait to improve, as well as his function. 1:05
[Comment From Guest ] i have no cartilage in right hand and two fingers and thumb on the left hand, i have alot of pain in the thumb, with bone rubbing on bone, alot of imflammatory meds i can't take with my asthma, any suggestions besides surgergy? i did go theraphy, didn't help much, i do have two splints to wear, that helps alittle. 1:07
At this point, it appears you have tried most conservative non-surgical options. You may want to contact an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hands, who can help assess and evaluate your condition and other potential future treatment options. 1:10
We've had a lot of great questions today. Thank you so much for your participation. If we weren't able to get to your question, feel free to contact ProHealth Care at www.prohealthcare.org/knee or Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin at www.orthowisconsin.com. 1:15
It's so unfortunate that you've had several surgeries without pain relief. It's important that you partner with your physician to proactively develop a plan for your pain management after your surgery.
Today's web chat is focused on knee replacement and knee pain. We're looking forward to answering your questions beginning at noon! 12:03
[Comment From Louise ] I had a total knee done in 2003. Because of poor care from my doc I have not seen anyone for five years. I have always had pain and swelling.I really am not crazy about another surgery. What does a repeat surgery entail. 12:06
This is a difficult question to answer. There are a number of reasons why a knee replacement can be painful, and the surgical solution would potentially vary, depending on the nature of the problem. I would advise you to see an orthopedic surgeon to have a thorough evaluation, including current X-rays. Sometimes painful knee replacements can be effectively treated non-surgically. 12:08
Welcome everyone! Today's Web chat is being hosted by Dr. Tim Schultz, Orthopedic Surgeon from Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin and Chris Shaw, RN MS, Clinical Nurse Specialist from ProHealth Care. 12:08
[Comment From Jeff ] i have the wearing of cartilage on my knees. Is there a non-surgical approach to correct? Thanks! 12:13
There are non-surgical ways, such as physical therapy, medications and injections, to help control the pain and inflammation associated with worn cartilage (arthritis); however, there are no known treatments that reliably regenerate cartilage for large areas of cartilage loss. In the future, it is hoped that with further research into areas such as gene therapy, that cartilage regeneration might be a possibility. This is probably a number of years away, however. 12:14
[Comment From Todd ] I'm having a double full knee replacement surgery in October how long before I can start moving around with confidence and being able to walk up and down stairs and walking in snow to shovel or snowblowing? 12:22
Your surgeon will undoubtedly have you begin walking by the first day after surgery, using either crutches or a walker. Progress from there is really quite dependent on the individual situation. In general, however, many people have gotten rid of assistive walking devices, such as a cane, by six weeks. Usually by three months, most people are able to get back to more vigorous daily activities, although I counsel my patients that it will probably take at least a year to reach a healing plateau. All throughout that year, though, you can expect progressive improvement, so don't get discouraged. 12:24
[Comment From Lara ] I am very over weight. I walked bone on bone. It is extremely painful. I need knee replacements, but my doctor wants me to loose about 100lbs. it is difficult to do, when I can't get exercise. What can I do? I need help. What do you suggest? 12:28
Thanks for your question. We recommend seeing your primary care doctor and a dietician to begin a safe weight loss program. You might want to consider swimming/water aerobics because of the decreased impact it has on painful joints. Stationary biking might be an option for you, as long as you don't have knee pain during the cycling motion. Before beginning any exercise program, make sure you talk with your primary care physician. Also, your primary care physician may talk with you about weight loss medications and/or bariatric surgery options. 12:29
[Comment From Sue ] I have had 2 knee surgeries a lateral release and a patella tendon debridement in 2007. Have no arthritis but am i n constant pain considering partial knee replacement of patella. Good idea? 12:36
It's interesting that you should ask that, actually. I just completed a partial knee replacement involving the kneecap compartment, utilizing the newest technology in robotic-assisted partial knee replacement (called MAKOplasty). Today, this is offered only through ProHealth Care and Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin. Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital is the first and only hospital in the State of Wisconsin that offers partial knee replacement using robotic technology. You may be a candidate for partial knee replacement, but it really depends on a more detailed orthopedic evaluation. It's possible that a partial knee replacement will effectively relieve your pain. 12:37
[Comment From Rich ] I had a total knee replacement in 2003 and had to have it redone in December of 2008. Since my original surgery I cannot kneel on it without significent pain. Will I ever be able to kneel on it pain free? If so when? The second surgery was due to a worn out pad which made my knee loose. I know my other knee is going to need surgery eventually but I don't want to have it done if it's anything like the first knee. Thanks for taking my question. 12:39
In my experience, more often than not, patients with knee replacements tend to find it uncomfortable to kneel. I don't prohibit kneeling after knee replacement, but recommend kneeling on something soft, such as a cushion, knee pad, or folded blanket. Ultimately, however, I advise my patients to let their symptoms be their guide. 12:40
[Comment From John ] How long should I endure knee pain before I go to the doctor? 12:44
It's really an issue of your decision as to your level of pain and limitations you are willing to tolerate. There are many options, which could alleviate your pain and allow you to continue on with your typical daily activities. A good diagnosis regarding the source of your knee pain and a subsequent treatment plan is highly recommended. There are some causes of knee pain that are very treatable and even reversable and may not require a surgical procedure. 12:44
[Comment From Cheryl ] I will be having a 'partial' knee replacement... does a partial replacement work? and is the healing process the same as a full replacement? 12:54
Partial knee replacement can be extremely effective. In general, recovery after partial knee replacement is quicker and easier than total knee replacement. In fact, with the use of the newest robotic technology (called MAKOplasty), we are seeing significantly shorter hospital stays, remarkably quicker recovery, less pain -- patients have been very satisfied. Using the robot allows us to use the latest techniques for minimally-invasive partial knee replacement. We're excited about this at Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin, where eight of our surgeons are the first and only providers of this latest technology in the whole state. Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital is the only hospital where this is offered. If you're considering this procedure, I'd encourage you to learn more about this technology. 12:56
[Comment From Lara ] What are the pros and cons about having both knees done at the same time? 1:01
This is somewhat of a controversial topic. Most studies do not clearly show a significant difference in complication rate when both knees are done at once, provided there are not medical contraindications. In my experience, the one difference is the more common need for a blood transfusion when both knees are done at once. In general, my patients who have both knees done at once are ultimately very thankful that they don't need to go through a second surgery. This is a personal decision and one that should be discussed with your orthopedist. 1:02
[Comment From Deb ] My husband is 40 years old, scheduled for bilateral full knee replacements. Will the surgery correct the altered gait and bowlegged-ness he has developed the past ten years? We're confident he should be able to return to full function. 1:03
In general, the bowed deformity should be corrected to a very slight knock kneed alignment. This distributes the weight more evenly through the implant. I would expect his gait to improve, as well as his function. 1:05
[Comment From Guest ] i have no cartilage in right hand and two fingers and thumb on the left hand, i have alot of pain in the thumb, with bone rubbing on bone, alot of imflammatory meds i can't take with my asthma, any suggestions besides surgergy? i did go theraphy, didn't help much, i do have two splints to wear, that helps alittle. 1:07
At this point, it appears you have tried most conservative non-surgical options. You may want to contact an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hands, who can help assess and evaluate your condition and other potential future treatment options. 1:10
We've had a lot of great questions today. Thank you so much for your participation. If we weren't able to get to your question, feel free to contact ProHealth Care at www.prohealthcare.org/knee or Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin at www.orthowisconsin.com. 1:15
It's so unfortunate that you've had several surgeries without pain relief. It's important that you partner with your physician to proactively develop a plan for your pain management after your surgery.
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