Knee Replacement in Young Patients

Knee replacement surgery, once reserved for older adults with advanced arthritis, is now being highly considered among younger, active individuals. Many people, even in their 40s, prefer knee replacement surgery to reduce their discomfort and regain mobility. In fact, there has been a 188% increase in arthritic baby boomers between 45 and 64 years old. The decision to undergo a knee replacement is often driven by the quality of life. But is knee replacement the best long-term solution for them? Read on to take a closer look at the rising trend!

Can Young People Get Knee Replacements?

Yes, younger people can get knee replacements if they have a severe knee problem that affects their day-to-day life. Younger patients often feel confident and healthier after they have had this surgery. In fact, a study by HSS even found that 70% of active young adults who underwent knee replacement were unlikely to require knee replacement revision in their lifetime. Typically, knee replacement in younger patients may be considered for those with the following:

• Osteoarthritis: Degenerative joint disease that results in pain, stiffness, and inflammation
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease that damages your joints
• Post-traumatic arthritis: Caused by a severe knee injury or complicated surgery.
• Knee Deformities: Conditions like misaligned knees.
• Avascular Necrosis: Death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply.

How Young is Too Young for Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement in young patients is still a debated topic because younger people tend to place more strain on their artificial joints due to their active lifestyles. But how young is too young? While there is no best age for knee replacement surgery, healthcare professionals generally recommend caution for patients under 50 who prefer the surgical treatment. 

Over the last decade, more people, even in their 30s, are opting for surgery as a result of injuries, early onset of arthritis, and wear and tear from high-impact activities like sports. However, to get the best results, make sure to consider the following factors,

• Age and Implant Longevity: Knee replacement usually lasts 15-20 years, i.e., you might or might not require revision surgery in the future.
• Materials and Techniques: New implants are made of advanced materials such as ceramic or metal composition, which are suitable for young people. These artificial parts provide flexibility and durability, which are appropriate for young patients.
• Physical Demands and Lifestyle: The patients at their early age are more physically active. Nonetheless, high-impact sports such as running and strenuous sports are discouraged post-surgery because they risk injuring the new joint.

Which Knee Replacement Surgery is Best for Younger Adults?

Due to higher awareness and improved technology, the number of young individuals opting for knee replacement surgery is gradually growing. But one should also know what their choices are to pick the procedure that best suits their long-term objectives. The types of knee replacement best suited to younger adults are:

• Partial Knee Replacement

In partial Knee Replacement for young adults, only a section of the knee joint is replaced. This option is often suggested when damage is limited to one part of the knee.

• Total Knee Replacement

Total Knee Replacement is generally done in elderly patients. However, it is also suitable for younger, active patients with severe knee damage. During the procedure, the surgeon will replace your entire affected knee joint with artificial components. 

• Patellofemoral Knee Replacement

It is also a minimally invasive knee replacement for active patients that replaces only the undersurface of your kneecap and the front of the thigh bone. 

What are the Risks of Knee Replacement for Young Patients?

Despite the benefits, knee replacement surgery in young people does have some risks. Make sure you weigh the following risks to ensure a better decision.

• Implant Wear and Tear

If you are a young adult with an active lifestyle, your artificial knee might experience frequent wear and tear over time. As a result, you may need to undergo revision surgery in the future.

• Infection

Knee replacement, like any other surgical procedure, in young patients also poses a risk of infection. It will complicate and extend your recovery process or induce the need for further treatment.

• Blood Clots

Young patients might also suffer from blood clots following the knee replacement surgery, as they will be more active at the time of recovery period.

• Post-Surgery Stiffness

Knee replacement aids mobility, but some can suffer from stiffness, which might limit their movement in the long run.

How to Recover from Knee Replacement Surgery at a Young Age?

Due to the resilience, the recovery time for knee replacement in younger adults is about three to six months. You can return to daily activities with greater ease in a year. Take a look at the expert tips below to recover faster with the right approach:

• Stick to your rehabilitation plan, as physical therapy helps you regain strength and flexibility.
• Adhere to prescribed drugs and herbal remedies to relieve pain and discomfort while recovering.
• Do light exercises such as walking, stretching to regain your mobility.
• Emphasise long-term care and have an active yet balanced life.

What are the Alternatives for Knee Replacement in Younger Patients?

As a young patient, you should consider non-surgical treatments before choosing the surgical procedure. The following knee replacement alternatives for young patients can relieve symptoms and improve function without the need for surgery:

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy helps you to tone the muscles around the affected area, increasing flexibility and decreasing pain. When you regularly engage in such exercise, you can enhance your joints’ stability and mobility while reducing the pressure on the knee joints.

Pain Relieving Medications

Your medical practitioner may also prescribe medications like Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesics. In certain cases, a cortisone injection or a visco-supplement injection with hyaluronic acid is prescribed to alleviate the pain for a shorter period.

Lifestyle Modifications

Change your diet and engage in low-risk weight loss exercises such as cycling and swimming to reduce the pressure on your knee joint and prevent the degeneration of osteoarthritis.

Bracing or Orthotics

Supportive equipment with customised orthopedic insoles can help distribute body weight evenly and relieve pressure on the affected knee joint.

How to Prepare for Knee Replacement Surgery?

You must ensure that you are physically and mentally fit prior to the surgery in order to have a smooth recovery period. Discuss with your surgeon about what to expect post-surgery to set your living expectations. Install grab bars in the shower, create accessible seating arrangements, and organise your living space to make it easy for you. It ensures smoother recovery time for knee replacement in younger adults.

Also Read: Total Knee Replacement surgery benefits

Reclaim Your Active Lifestyle and Move Forward with Confidence!

Knee pain can happen to anyone, but it can be frustrating when it happens in your early life. Anyone who is thinking about undergoing the procedure, be it young or old, should initially experiment with non-surgical methods in consultation with a medical professional. If that fails, then a knee replacement can be an effective way to regain mobility for the long term.

Even though there is no lower age limit for knee replacement surgery, make sure to consider the severity of your symptoms, as well as your overall quality of life. At Apollo Spectra, we realise that every patient's situation is unique. With precision and a personalised approach, we ensure that you get back to your favorite things with confidence, comfort, and strength.