Total knee replacement (TKR) is a prosthetic or mechanical knee. A TKR is used when the regular knee joint deteriorates to a point that your function is impaired. This may be due to excessive pain and/or weakness.

Normally, the ends of the bones of the knee are covered with cartilage, which provides cushion and lubrication. Trauma, disease and arthritis can break this cartilage down to a point where the knee joint becomes eroded and rough. The joint then may become stiff and painful.

If you and your surgeon agree that you are candidate for TKR, you will be scheduled for surgery. Special alloy parts are installed over the ends of the damaged bone. While the new replacement will never be the same as the original joint, it is very similar and will allow you to resume functional activities and decrease the pain. There will be an incision site about 8-10 inches long over the front of your knee.

After surgery you will receive rehabilitation to help restore your strength, decrease swelling and pain, and allow you to participate in functional activities such as walking. This rehabilitation is necessary before you can be released from the hospital. At first you will begin walking with a walker. After you gain more strength and range of motion, you may be transitioned to crutches or a cane. Most people can eventually walk without an assistive device.

After you are released from the hospital, you will likely continue with your rehabilitation in an outpatient center. During this time, you will gain more strength and range of motion, and become better prepared for stair climbing. In the meantime, there are steps you can take to make things safer in your home until your rehabilitation is complete. Remove throw rugs, eliminate clutter (magazines, electrical cords, etc.) from the floor, be cautious of small pets, place extra pillows in chairs (to make it easier to get out of them) and use a small backpack to carry items.

After you have been fully rehabilitated and released from medical care, you will want to maintain a regular exercise program for your knee to keep it in good shape. Your health professional will be able to help you with this program.