Knee Replacement Doctor Questions and Answers
A knee replacement doctor can reduce pain and improve the function of a knee joint that has been badly damaged, typically by arthritis. If your knee is injured and needs replacement, come to Dr. Paul Dicpinigaitis MD located in Massapequa, NY. Our experienced orthopedic surgeon can help you regain function and live a pain-free life. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 5840 Merrick Road Massapequa, NY 11758. We serve patients from Massapequa NY, Amityville NY, Bellmore NY, Merrick NY, Wantagh NY, Bethpage NY, Plainedge NY, and Farmingdale NY.
Table of Contents:
What kind of doctor does knee replacement?
Who Needs Knee Replacement Surgery?
Is a knee replacement a major operation?
The knees are highly active joints that are essential to mobile functions like walking, running, jumping and swimming. Due to the amount of pressure placed upon the knees, they are subjected to wear and tear. Because the wear and tear of the knee joint is so gradual, it can be hard to distinguish when the problem started. In some cases, minimally invasive procedures can help restore the function of the knee. However, if these treatments have failed to provide relief, a knee replacement is often the best solution for long-term benefits.
The kind of doctor that performs a knee replacement is an orthopedic surgeon. These medical professionals are experienced in treating the musculoskeletal system and can help improve the function of both hard and soft tissue injuries. Orthopedic surgeons are the most qualified of any medical professional to perform knee replacement surgery and have a high success rate.
Knee replacement surgery may be needed, if:
• Pain medications, even stronger anti-inflammatory drugs, do not help or no longer provide relief
• Other less invasive treatment options do not effectively reduce pain and inflammation and may include rest, lubricating injections, cortisone injections, and physical therapy
• There is lots of difficulty and pain performing everyday tasks, such getting dressed, bathing, climbing stairs, or getting out of bed or a chair
• A cane or walker is needed to get around
• Pain is severe day and night, even when not using the knees
• Knees have become deformed from injury or arthritis
• Pain persists or recurs over time
• Knee aches during and after exercise
• Mobility is negatively affected
• Knees stiffen up from sitting down for extended periods
• Pain is felt during rainy weather
• Pain prevents you from sleeping
• Range of motion is negatively affected
• Knees are stiff or swollen
• It is difficult to walk or climb stairs
• Experiencing morning stiffness (for less than 30 minutes)
• There is a “grating” of the knee joint
• There was a previous injury to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)
Yes, knee replacement surgery is a major operation. It requires anesthesia and a recovery period. A knee replacement surgery has the potential to greatly improve quality of life, which includes increased mobility and decreased pain. Although the recovery period is long, the quality of health afterwards is well worth it. Following the knee replacement surgery, patients can often resume exercising and extra activities such as hiking and biking after around 8 to 12 weeks (two to three months). Full recovery from a knee replacement surgery typically takes a year in order to completely heal and regain total function. Recovery and healing times vary from patient to patient and depend upon a number of factors, including overall health, age, the presence of any medical conditions, and how well the patient responds to surgery.
If you or someone you love has tried other treatments for knee pain without success, come to Paul (Dr. D) Dicpinigaitis, MD today. Our orthopedic surgeon is experienced at performing knee replacement surgery and can help restore your form and function. Our doctor is well-respected for his patient-centered care, with many patients amazed by his bedside manners. Call us today to book an appointment. We look forward to serving you!
We serve patients from Lake Success NY, Russell Gardens NY, Spinney Hill NY, Great Neck Estates NY, Thomaston NY, Manhasset Hills NY, and North Hills NY.
