What is total knee replacement?
Total knee replacement, also called total knee arthroplasty, replaces the damaged bearing surfaces of the knee. The end of the thighbone, top of the shinbone, and sometimes the kneecap surface are prepared for implants.
The surgery is usually considered when knee arthritis causes pain, stiffness, deformity, or loss of function that no longer responds well enough to nonsurgical care.
The key decisions in a knee replacement plan
Total or partial?
Some patients need total knee replacement, while selected patients may be candidates for partial knee replacement.
Alignment philosophy
Mechanical and kinematic alignment strategies can both be appropriate. The decision depends on anatomy and surgeon judgment.
Recovery support
Safe recovery depends on pain control, early walking, range of motion, home support, and a clear physical therapy plan.
What happens before surgery
Diagnosis
Symptoms, exam, X-rays, and deformity are reviewed.
Timing
The surgeon explains whether nonsurgical options still make sense.
Alignment
The plan addresses joint line, ligament balance, and implant position.
Recovery
Discharge, therapy, medication, and home safety are planned early.
Common questions
How do I know it is time?
It may be time when knee pain limits walking, stairs, sleep, work, or activities despite reasonable nonsurgical care.
What does kinematic alignment mean?
It is a patient-specific alignment strategy that may be considered when restoring native knee geometry is safe for the patient's anatomy.
How soon do patients walk?
Many patients walk the day of surgery with assistance, but the pace depends on health, pain control, strength, and surgeon guidance.
Will I need therapy?
Most patients need a structured recovery plan focused on walking, swelling control, strength, and range of motion.
Patient education references used for this page: AAOS Total Knee Replacement, AAHKS Total Knee Replacement, and peer-reviewed review/meta-analysis on kinematic vs. mechanical alignment patient-reported outcomes.