It is a major surgery, requiring a hospital stay and months of rehabilitation.
Risks include infection, blood clots, stiffness, or implant loosening.
Some patients may feel the knee doesn’t bend as much as they hoped.
Is Knee Replacement or LTD Worth It?
Medicine Made Simple:
When knee pain from osteoarthritis becomes severe, doctors may suggest surgery. The two main surgical options are total knee replacement (TKR) and limited (or partial) knee replacement, sometimes called LTD. Both aim to reduce pain and improve mobility, but whether they are “worth it” depends on age, severity, lifestyle, and personal goals. In this blog, we explain each option in detail, share patient experiences, cover recovery and long-term outcomes, and help you understand when surgery may be th...
Why Surgery Is Considered in Osteoarthritis ?
Osteoarthritis gradually wears down the knee’s protective cartilage, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Early on, painkillers, exercise, weight loss, and injections can help. But when the damage is advanced and daily life becomes a struggle, surgery may be the best option.
Surgery does not “cure” osteoarthritis. Instead, it replaces or repairs damaged parts of the knee to relieve pain and restore function. Many patients consider surgery when simple activities like walking to the market, climbing stairs, or sleeping without pain are no longer possible.
What Is Total Knee Replacement (TKR)?
Total knee replacement involves removing the worn-out surfaces of the thighbone, shinbone, and sometimes kneecap, and replacing them with artificial parts made of metal and plastic.
Benefits of TKR
Provides strong and reliable pain relief for most patients
Allows return to daily activities and sometimes even light sports
Implants typically last 15–20 years, offering long-term stability
Risks of TKR
What Is Limited (Partial) Knee Replacement (LTD)?
Limited (partial) knee replacement replaces only the damaged portion of the knee, usually the inner (medial) or outer (lateral) compartment. The rest of the knee remains untouched.
Benefits of LTD
Smaller incision and less invasive than TKR
Quicker recovery, often 4–6 weeks compared to months for TKR
Feels more “natural” since most of the original joint remains intact
Risks of LTD
Smaller incision and less invasive than TKR
Quicker recovery, often 4–6 weeks compared to months for TKR
Feels more “natural” since most of the original joint remains intact
Is Surgery Worth It?
Severity of Symptoms
Surgery is worth considering when:
Pain is constant and interferes with daily life
Knees are stiff, unstable, or swollen most of the time
Sleep is disturbed by knee pain
Non-surgical treatments no longer help
Age and Activity Level
Younger patients may benefit from LTD as it preserves healthy joint tissue
Older patients or those with widespread arthritis usually benefit more from TKR
Personal Goals
Patients who simply want to walk without pain or play with their grandchildren often find surgery worthwhile. Those who expect to return to high-impact sports may be disappointed.
Recovery and Rehabilitation: What to Expect
After Total Knee Replacement
Hospital stay: 3–5 days
Walking: Usually with a walker or crutches in the first week
Physiotherapy: Daily exercises to regain motion and strength
Full recovery: 3–6 months for most patients, longer for demanding activities
After Limited Knee Replacement
Hospital stay: Often just 1–2 days
Walking: Many patients walk without crutches in 1–2 weeks
Physiotherapy: Still essential, but progress is quicker
Full recovery: Often within 4–8 weeks
Recovery is a major part of whether surgery feels “worth it.” Patients who commit to physiotherapy usually achieve the best results.
Long-Term Outlook and Quality of Life
Both surgeries can provide long-term pain relief and improved mobility. Most patients say they are glad they had the surgery, though recovery can be challenging.
TKR longevity: 85–90% of implants last 20 years or more
LTD longevity: May need revision sooner, especially if arthritis spreads
Quality of life: Patients often report they wish they had surgery sooner because of the relief and independence gained
Alternatives Before Surgery
Not everyone is ready for surgery, and some may manage symptoms without it for years. Options include:
Physiotherapy: To strengthen supporting muscles
Weight loss: To reduce pressure on the knees
Injections: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid for temporary relief
Medications: Pain medications and topical treatments
Support: Braces, canes, or shoe inserts for added support
When these options fail to provide relief, surgery becomes more appealing.
Questions to Ask Before Surgery
Do I need total or partial replacement?
How long will the recovery take for me?
What activities will I be able to do afterward?
What risks apply to my health condition?
How many knee replacements has my surgeon performed?
Asking these questions helps ensure you’re fully prepared and realistic about outcomes.
If knee pain is stopping you from living the life you want, talk to your doctor about whether knee replacement or LTD might be right for you. Surgery is a big decision, but for many people with advanced osteoarthritis, it provides lasting relief and restores independence. With the right preparation, recovery, and guidance, you can decide if surgery is truly “worth it” for you.
References and Sources:
Arthritis Foundation. Knee Surgery for Osteoarthritis
Mayo Clinic.Knee Replacement
National Health Service(NHS). Knee Replacement
*Information contained in this article is not intended or designed to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other professional health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or advice in relation thereto.
