Determining if you’re ready for a total knee replacement goes beyond just having knee pain. You may need a knee replacement if you have severe, persistent knee pain that interferes with daily activities like:

• Walking
• Climbing stairs
• Getting up from chairs
• Pain during rest or sleep, a sign of advanced joint deterioration
• Significant knee stiffness that limits bending or straightening, making routine tasks difficult

It may be time to consider knee replacement if conservative treatments no longer work, such as:

• Medications
• Physical therapy
• Injections
• Assistive devices (like braces or canes)

When evaluating if surgery is right for you, Dr. Schwimley looks at:

• Your overall health and activity level.
• Realistic expectations for surgery outcomes.
• Commitment to post-operative rehabilitation.

Age is not a limiting factor for total knee replacement, as success depends more on your overall health and motivation than your age. During your consultation, Dr. Schwimley will assess your condition through a physical examination and imaging studies to determine if total knee replacement is the best option for your situation.

Recovery from total knee replacement surgery follows a structured timeline, starting immediately after your procedure and continuing for several months.

• In the Hospital: Within hours of surgery, you'll begin moving your new knee. A physical therapist will guide you through initial exercises and help you walk with assistive devices. Most patients are discharged the same day or one day laters, depending on their progress and the support available at home.
• The First Two Weeks: This stage focuses on wound healing, pain management, and achieving basic mobility goals. These include walking short distances and safely climbing stairs.
• Weeks Three to Six: Physical therapy becomes more intensive, focusing on improving range of motion and building strength. Many patients regain enough mobility to resume driving within two to four weeks, provided they can safely operate the pedals and are no longer taking narcotic pain medications.
• Returning to Work: The timeline for returning to work depends on your job. Desk workers can often return within four to six weeks. However, those with physically demanding jobs might need three to four months.
• Full Recovery: Complete recovery typically takes three to six months. That said, most patients notice significant improvements in pain and function much earlier.

Dr. Schwimley will provide detailed recovery guidelines and closely monitor your progress with regular follow-up appointments to ensure optimal healing.

Modern total knee replacement implants are designed to last 15-20 years or longer with proper care and normal activity levels. The longevity of your implant depends on factors such as your activity level, body weight, bone quality, and adherence to follow-up care recommendations. 

Today's advanced materials and surgical techniques have significantly improved implant durability compared to earlier generations. After full recovery, most patients can participate in low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, golf, and tennis. Many patients also enjoy hiking, dancing, and other recreational activities that were previously limited by knee pain.

High-impact activities like running, jumping sports, or heavy lifting may be restricted to preserve implant longevity, though this varies by individual case, and Dr. Schwimley will provide specific activity guidelines based on your situation.

The key to maximizing implant lifespan includes maintaining a healthy weight, staying active with appropriate exercises, attending regular follow-up appointments, and promptly addressing any concerns that arise. Most patients find that their artificial knee allows them to return to a remarkably active lifestyle, often participating in activities they had given up years before surgery due to pain limitations.

Scheduling your consultation with Dr. Schwimley is simple and convenient through our user-friendly online scheduling system or by calling our Cedar Falls office directly. Our knowledgeable staff will help coordinate your appointment at a time that works best for your schedule and assist with any pre-visit preparations, including gathering relevant medical records or imaging studies from other providers. We accept most major insurance plans and will verify your coverage before your consultation to ensure you understand any potential costs associated with your care.

During your comprehensive evaluation, Dr. Schwimley will take ample time to understand your specific knee problems, review your medical history, and discuss how your condition impacts your daily life and activity goals. He will perform a thorough physical examination and may recommend additional imaging studies if needed to fully assess your knee condition. We look forward to helping you take the first step toward a pain-free, active future!