Frequently Asked Questions About Knee Replacement
Below are commonly asked questions and answers about knee replacements. If you have further questions, please ask your surgeon or contact the Joint Center Program Coordinator.
What is arthritis and why does my knee hurt?
Smooth cartilage is present in the healthy knee, on the lower end of the femur (thigh bone) and
the upper end of the tibia (lower leg bone) and the undersurface of the patella (kneecap). This
cartilage allows for a smooth gliding surface and cushions weight load on this joint. Arthritis is
the wearing away of this cartilage leading to pain, discomfort, and swelling.
What does a total knee replacement involve?
A metal platform is secured onto the tibia and femur. Between these two metal implants a spacer is
inserted to serve as your new cartilage. The back surface of your own kneecap is also smoothed.
All these parts slide smoothly across each other.
What can I expect after my total knee replacement?
No two patients experience identical symptoms/levels of discomfort prior to a knee surgery.
Similarly, no two patients will relate identical recovery/results after a knee replacement. The
constant and critical concept with a knee replacement is adherence to your surgeon’s guidelines
for restoring motion in your knee. You will have discomfort after your surgery, consisting mostly
of stiffness, soreness, and swelling.
Am I too old for this type of surgery?
As long as you are in reasonable health and you desire to put time and effort into the rehabilitation
process, you are a candidate for this type of surgery.
For pictures and more information about the knee.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hip Replacement
Below are commonly asked questions and answers about hip replacements. If you have further questions please ask your surgeon or contact the Orthopedic Joint Center Program Coordinator.
What is arthritis and why does my hip hurt?
The hip joint is lined with a layer of smooth cartilage, which allows the hip ball to move
smoothly in a cup. Arthritis is the wearing down of that smooth cartilage resulting in pain,
Swelling, and stiffness to the area affected.
What does a total hip replacement involve?
A total hip replacement involves the following: the arthritic ball of the thigh bone (femur)
is removed and replaced with a metal ball that is fixed solidly inside of the femur by a shaft
attached to the ball. The hip socket is replaced with a plastic or metal liner that is fixed inside of
a metal cup. The new parts move freely and smoothly against each other.
Am I too old for this type of surgery?
As long as you are in reasonable health and you have the desire to put time and effort into the
rehabilitation process, you are a candidate for this type of surgery.
For pictures and more information about the hip.