Knee replacements are among the most commonly performed and highly successful orthopedic surgical procedures. A knee replacement is done when the knee joint has worn out, most often as a result of wear-and-tear arthritis. When a knee replacement surgery is performed, the worn out cartilage is removed and the ends of the bone are shaped. Over the ends of the bone, a metal implant is fit into place, and a plastic spacer is placed between the metal implants. This reconstructive procedure is performed to allow a smooth, pain-free movement of the joint.
The most important step in finding a solution to persistent discomfort is to first determine the cause of the pain. Without this knowledge, it is very difficult to find an appropriate treatment. The most common causes of pain after knee replacement include:
- LOOSENING OF THE IMPLANT: This is most often the cause of pain years or decades after the knee replacement; however, it is seldom the cause of persistent pain right after surgery.
- INFECTION: Any increase in pain after knee replacement should raise concerns for infection.
- PATELLOFEMORAL PROBLEMS: Kneecap pain is very common.
