If you’re having trouble with knee pain that won’t quit — particularly while walking, going up stairs, or rising from bed — you’re not alone. Knee pain is one of the most frequent joint conditions, particularly in adults aged over 45. But must every patient with knee pain have knee replacement surgery?
Not necessarily. At Dr. Ashish Suryawanshi’s clinic, one of the top joint preservation and replacement experts in Pune, a number of patients are surprised to find that surgery is not always the first resort.
This blog will give you insight into:
- When knee replacement is really necessary
- The symptoms to look out for
- What options are available
- And how to proceed with confidence
When Knee Pain Can Be Treated Without Surgery
In the initial stages, chronic knee pain — whether due to osteoarthritis, trauma, or overuse — can usually be treated with non-operative methods, such as:
- Lifestyle adjustments
Weight loss, posture improvement, and wearing proper shoes can take pressure off the joint.
- Physiotherapy and strengthening exercises
Specific exercises can stabilize and support the knee.
- Medications
Painkillers and anti-inflammatory agents may achieve symptom control.
- Joint injections (Viscosupplementation or PRP)
These slow down pain and halt progression in a few specific cases.
- Knee braces or supports
Beneficial in unloading and stabilizing the joint while walking.
If you’re at the early to moderate phases of arthritis and your joint is structurally sound, these can often forestall — or even prevent — surgery.
When Knee Replacement Becomes Necessary
Knee replacement is recommended when all non-surgical treatments are not successful and pain or disability significantly affects your day-to-day living.
The following are indications that surgery might be the next best option:
- Persistent pain even at rest or while sleeping
- Severe walking, stair climbing, or simple task difficulty
- Kneedeformity or conspicuous bowing of the leg
- Mobility loss causing dependence
- X-rays indicating extensive joint damage or “bone-on-bone” arthritis
- At this point, surgery can make a big difference in quality of life.
What Does Knee Replacement Involve?
Knee replacement is the process of removing the problematic cartilage and bone in the knee joint and substituting it with a tailor-made implant that replicates the knee’s natural motion.
There are various procedures:
- Partial Knee Replacement – Damaged section only replaced
- Total Knee Replacement – Whole joint resurfaced
- Revision Surgery – If earlier implant fails
Dr. Ashish Suryawanshi employs latest, minimally invasive technologies that minimize pain, bleeding, and hospital stay — allowing the patient to recover quickly and walk earlier.
Knee Replacement Myths – Dispelled
Myth: Knee replacement is meant only for old people
Fact: Age does not matter. The extent of joint damage and lifestyle requirements matter more.
Myth: I will be bedridden for months.
Fact: With modern surgical techniques, numerous patients begin walking the same or the next day.
Myth: Implants don’t last long.
Fact: Today’s implants can survive 15–20+ years with correct treatment and activity adjustments.
Why Choose Dr. Ashish Suryawanshi?
- Joint preservation and sophisticated replacement expert
- Specialized knee, hip, shoulder, and elbow surgery
- Non-surgical first whenever achievable prioritizes
- Evidence-based, patient-centered care
- Patient-trusted in Pune and PCMC
Conclusion
Knee replacement is a life-altering surgery for the appropriate patient but it’s not always the best choice for knee pain. If you’re not sure if you need surgery or still have options for conservative care, it’s best to see a joint specialist.
At Dr. Ashish Suryawanshi’s clinic, each patient gets a one-on-one evaluation and treatment plan. Whether you’re considering physiotherapy, injections, or surgery, you’re in good hands.
