When you think of joint replacement, do you automatically envision someone well into their retirement years? Many people assume that knee replacement is only for older people. While it’s true that most patients who undergo knee replacement are in their 60s and beyond, this procedure can also help younger people regain pain-free knee function.
Our team at The Woodlands Sports Medicine Centre works with each patient individually to find the best possible treatment option for all types of joint health issues. When it comes to a damaged knee joint, you have options, including knee replacement.
Today, let’s talk about joint health treatments for residents of Conroe and The Woodlands, Texas, who are looking for relief but are not yet in their retirement era.
While it’s true that most people who have knee replacement do so after the age of 60, that’s largely because degenerative joint conditions are more common among that age group. It makes sense when you consider all that we ask of our knee joints over the years.
As you move into retirement and beyond, your knees have served you well for many decades. Degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis wear away the cartilage within your knee, which removes the protective cushioning effect. As more and more tissue wears away, the bones in your knee can begin to make contact, a condition that can be incredibly painful.
But a traumatic injury can also damage a knee beyond the point where less invasive treatments can help. And injuries can happen at any age, regardless of how careful you are. In some cases, replacing damaged knee components is the best way to restore optimal joint function.
You also see knee replacements in younger people who play professional sports, or who are fitness enthusiasts. Repetitive stress can cause knee problems, as can a sudden sports injury.
At the end of the day, matters like your overall health, your joint pain, and any limitations you’re facing due to knee issues will have a greater impact on your treatment path than your age.
If you’re facing treatment options for knee issues and unsure which path to choose, it might be helpful to think about the potential benefits of knee replacement surgery at a younger age. Virtually everyone heals more rapidly and with fewer complications when they’re younger.
Having a knee replacement now can mean a faster recovery time and better surgical outcome. Younger patients often move through physical therapy faster and with more ease than those who begin the process at an advanced age.
On the other hand, modern knee replacements are expected to last between 15-20 years, so younger patients have to factor in the likelihood of needing an additional replacement procedure down the line.
While we’re here today to discuss knee replacement surgery, it’s important to note that a full knee replacement is not the only way to effectively treat knee pain and joint health issues. There are a range of more conservative treatment options to consider, and our practitioners will always explain the full scope of options.
Things like bracing and a period of careful rest and self-care can sometimes be all that’s needed to improve joint problems. Physical therapy can also be beneficial, helping you strengthen your knee and improve joint stability.
A partial knee replacement might also be an option, and works by replacing only the portion of the knee that is damaged, leaving healthy tissue in place.
If you’re ready to learn more about your options, our practitioners are here to help. You can set up a time to visit The Woodlands Sports Medicine Centre with a quick phone call. Online booking is also an option if you prefer.
