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Original poster

Experience of partial knee replacement

27 replies

Northumberlandlass · 21/05/2024 15:50

Hi - after initially seeing a ortho consultant 4 years ago & being told I had osteoarthritis in both knees but that I was too young to do anything, I have been in awful pain for years.

I went back & saw a different consultant last week (Private through work) & after xrays/ consultation, I’m going to get partial knee replacements in both legs this year (not at the same time). I’m 51.

Has anyone got any experience?
I believe it is usual to have spinal block & sedation now rather than full GA.
How long was recovery?
Any generally useful tips?

Thank you

OP posts:
thenightsky · 22/05/2024 20:20

CJ0374 · 22/05/2024 19:57

I'm only early 40's, but have osteo arthritis on the inner parts of my knees too. Possibly genetic, possibly due to being an ex-dancer and being on my feet due to work- no Dr could tell me why!
I was given an off loader brace. It moves the pressure from the affected side to the other side and opens up the area which is bone on bone. It's enabled me to walk pain free, actually sleep and live a fairly normal life. 3yrs on, I have weaned myself off the brace and no longer live in agony. I WILL need a replacement in time, but am able to hold off for now. OP- this brace might be an option, even if just while waiting for your replacement. There are several styles, some fit under trousers, others less discreet and go over the top.

My mum had a partial done in her 60's. 15yrs on, hers is still doing strong and no need for a revision of it as yet. She did say that knees are worse that hips though.

https://www.healthandcare.co.uk/knee-supports-and-braces/th_23490120800151.html?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwr7ayBhAPEiwA6EIGxOqPvoLTltnF_aJAGsA677_lrg01Q0yxEnhiQdHH9cje2G9L6t3QQBoC-pIQAvD_BwE

https://comfyorthopedic.com/en-gb/products/oa-unloader-medial-or-lateral-offloading-knee-brace-l1851-l1843-new?currency=GBP&variant=43626057105589&stkn=d5a17178a4b3&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwr7ayBhAPEiwA6EIGxP8G0hJOKo1-9nKUIJPaZBcCQgCIP9W_Ko8yZv_8qkHzM_KazAbUeBoC5kwQAvD_BwE

That first link looks really good. Thank you for that.

Original poster
Northumberlandlass · 22/05/2024 21:59

CJ0374 · 22/05/2024 20:20

Pressed too soon. I mention the off loader brace, because I was unaware of their existence. I saw 3 consultants in total over the years (1 private abroad) and it was only in passing that the final one mentioned an off loader, after I showed him the useless boots brace I'd been wearing. It made a massive change for me!

Thank you @CJ0374 my consultant did mention it & pushed my leg to the place it would need to be & the pain was immense.

I’m going bow legged because of the arthritis & the outside of my knees are sore with tension.

I also danced for many years!

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