What will you read in this blog:
- What is a knee prosthesis?
- Partial or total knee prosthesis: what is the difference?
- When do you need a knee prosthesis?
- What are the pros and cons of a knee prosthesis?
- First try without surgery
- MotiMove: exercise before or after knee surgery
- Frequently asked questions about knee prostheses
Motimove is an exercise app to reduce pain, download now!
What is a knee prosthesis?
A knee prosthesis is an artificial joint that replaces your knee when your natural joint is too worn out due to osteoarthritis. When the cartilage is completely gone, bone rubs on bone, causing a lot of pain and limited movement.
Surgery in which a prosthesis is placed can then be a solution. This usually only happens when nothing else helps.
Partial or total knee prosthesis: what is the difference?
Partial knee prosthesis (unicondylar prosthesis)
In a partial knee prosthesis, only one part of the knee is replaced. This is only done if the wear is on one side of the knee, usually the inside.
Advantages:
- Smaller procedure
- Faster recovery
- More of your own knee is preserved
- Lower risk of complications
Total knee prosthesis
In a total knee prosthesis, the entire knee joint is replaced. This is done if the wear is on multiple sides of the knee, or if the whole joint is severely damaged.
Advantages:
- Good pain relief
- Suitable for severe or widespread wear
- Long-lasting result (10–20 years)
When do you need a knee prosthesis?
A knee prosthesis only comes into consideration when other treatments are no longer effective. Your doctor looks at:
- How severe the osteoarthritis is
- How much pain you have
- If you can still move and function
- If you have already tried treatments such as physiotherapy and exercises
You can also do things yourself to postpone or even avoid surgery. See it as a last step, not the first.
What are the pros and cons of a knee prosthesis?
Advantages:
- Less pain
- More freedom of movement
- Walking, cycling or climbing stairs is easier
- Quality of life often improves
Disadvantages:
- A knee prosthesis is not a real knee – it feels different
- You have to rehabilitate for a long time (usually 4 to 6 months)
- Complications can occur (such as infection or loosening)
- You may no longer be allowed to do certain movements (for example, kneeling)
First try without surgery
Did you know you can often do a lot yourself to reduce pain? Think of:
- Targeted exercises to strengthen your muscles
- Healthy eating and possibly losing weight
- Painkillers or an anti-inflammatory as an interim solution
- Using a brace or walking stick
By seriously addressing these things, you can sometimes postpone surgery for years or even avoid it altogether.
MotiMove: exercise before or after knee surgery
Whether you want to delay surgery or already know you are getting a prosthesis, exercising is always important.
The MotiMove app helps you keep moving safely, with:
- Exercise videos specially for knee osteoarthritis
- Tips on pain and recovery
- An easy way to track your progress
Frequently asked questions about knee prostheses
Which is better, a partial or total knee prosthesis?
That depends on how much wear you have. If the wear is on one side of the knee, a partial prosthesis is often enough. Is the whole knee worn out? Then you’ll usually get a total prosthesis.
How long does a knee prosthesis last?
A knee prosthesis lasts an average of 15 to 20 years. In younger people it may wear out earlier. That’s why surgery in younger people is often postponed as long as possible.
Is a knee prosthesis always necessary for osteoarthritis?
No, many people with knee osteoarthritis can live for years without surgery, with the help of exercises, lifestyle changes and pain management.
How do I prepare for a knee prosthesis?
Start with light exercises, such as those in the MotiMove app. Healthy eating, losing weight and quitting smoking also help with better healing after surgery.
How long does recovery from knee surgery take?
Recovery takes an average of 3 to 6 months. If it involves the cruciate ligament, it takes 12 months. During this period you do exercises to make your knee stronger and more flexible. Some people recover faster, others take a bit longer.
Sometimes a new knee is needed but start by exercising
A knee prosthesis can bring many benefits, but it’s a big step. Fortunately, there are many ways to try something yourself first. With the right exercises, guidance and commitment, you can keep your knee healthy for longer.
Download MotiMove and work step by step towards less pain, stronger muscles and more control over your knee complaints. Before, after or without surgery.