Q. I have very painful knee arthritis, and my doctor suggests knee replacement. I’m nervous about the surgery and I’d like to put it off. Is there any downside to waiting?
A
Total knee replacement is almost always an elective procedure. If you are uncertain, discuss your concerns with your doctor. If surgery is being recommended, it probably means you’ve already tried more conservative measures, such as physical therapy, exercise, a knee brace, pain medications, and possibly injections of corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid. But if pain can’t be adequately relieved, and your ability to function is compromised, it’s time to consider surgery.
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