Good News For Bad Knees

If your older parent complains about chronic knee pain he or she may be a good candidate for a knee replacement.

Knee replacements are one of the most common surgeries performed in the United States. Every year more than 300,000 people – mostly over 65 – undergo surgery to replace knees that have become stiff and painful after years of wear and tear.

Most people who have had knee replacement surgery are pleased with the results. They can now walk, climb stairs, and enjoy activities they had to give up because of unbearable pain.

DIAGNOSING PAINFUL KNEES

Begin by scheduling an appointment with your relative's doctor for a physical exam. The doctor will evaluate the condition of the knee with a variety of lab tests, x-rays, bone scans, MRI, a biopsy, aspiration of fluid from the joint, and an arthroscopy to determine how well her knees function. Your parent will then be referred to an orthopedic surgeon for further tests to determine if she is a good candidate for a knee replacement.

Knee replacement requires a major operation. Be sure that your relative – and you as her caregiver – understand the benefits and potential risks from the procedure. Ask the doctor and the knee surgeon to explain Medicare and supplementary insurance coverage for the surgery, physical therapy and other expenses.

SURGERY

Once the surgeon and your relative decide that a knee replacement is right for her, the surgery will be scheduled. It will take about two hours to put in the artificial joint and your parent will spend several days recovering in the hospital. After the surgery he will be given pain medications and treatments to prevent blood clots and will be encouraged to move his foot and ankle.

More than 90% of individuals who have had a knee replacement notice a substantial improvement in their ability to walk, climb stairs and do other activities without pain after the surgery.

HOME COMING

Before your relative is discharged from the hospital she must be able to get in and out of bed without help, bend and extend her new knee, walk with crutches or a walker, and is willing to do the exercises prescribed by the doctor at home. A physical therapist will show your relative how to do these exercises correctly.

If your parent lives alone invite him to stay with you or another relative while he's recovering.

To make the house is safe and comfortable:

• Put away throw rugs.

• Install a shower chair and raised toilet seat in the bathroom.

• Give your parent a bedroom on the first floor or make up a bed on the living room couch.

• Provide long-handled shoehorns, sponges and a reaching tool so he doesn't have to bend over.

When your relative is ready to be discharged from the hospital he'll be given medications, instructions for wound care at home, and exercises. Be sure you both understand these instructions and carry them out as prescribed. If you or your parent has any questions or concerns about his new knee, don't hesitate to contact the doctor.

IMPROVEMENT AFTER SURGERY

Surgery will improve the knee's range of motion but the replacement won't be "as good as new." Your parent will be able to climb stairs but it may be uncomfortable to kneel. Moderate exercise -- walking, swimming, playing golf -- will help improve the new knee's strength and flexibility. However it's important to avoid falls to prevent damage the new joint.

CAREGIVER SUPPORT IS ESSENTIAL

As a caring family member you have an important role in your relative's health and wellbeing. Learn as much as you can about complex medical procedures – like knee replacements – so you can provide the care and support your parent will need before, during and after surgery.