A knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves removing a damaged or diseased knee joint and replacing it with an artificial joint made of metal and plastic components.

• The procedure is typically performed to relieve pain and improve mobility in patients with conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other types of knee joint damage.
• The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about 1-3 hours to complete.
• During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision in the knee, remove the damaged joint and cartilage, and then position the artificial joint.
• The artificial joint is made up of a metal component that replaces the thigh bone (femur) and a plastic component that replaces the shin bone (tibia). A plastic button may also be placed to replace the back of the knee (patella).
• After the surgery, patients will typically spend several days in the hospital recovering.
• Physical therapy will begin soon after the surgery to help the patient regain strength and mobility in the knee.
• The recovery time can vary depending on the individual and the type of surgery.
• It can take several weeks to a few months for patients to regain full use of their knee, and some may require additional therapy sessions.

It's important to note that a knee replacement is a major surgery, and it is not suitable for everyone. The decision to undergo a knee replacement is based on the individual's overall health, the severity of their knee damage, and their response to other forms of treatment such as physical therapy, medications, and other non-surgical treatments.

Total knee replacement surgery is a major procedure, and some pain and discomfort are to be expected during the recovery period. However, the level of pain experienced can vary from person to person, and pain management protocols have been developed to minimize the amount of pain experienced during and after the surgery.

• During the procedure, the patient will be under general anesthesia, so they will not feel any pain during the surgery.
• After the surgery, the patient will be given pain medication to help manage any discomfort.
• Most patients report that the pain is manageable with over-the-counter pain medication or prescription medication.
• In the first few days following the surgery, the patient may experience some pain and swelling around the knee.
• Physical therapy will begin soon after the surgery to help the patient regain strength and mobility in the knee.
• The therapy can cause some discomfort but it's important for the patient to participate and follow the physical therapy program.
• As the patient continues to recover, the pain and discomfort should gradually decrease.
• The majority of patients are able to return to normal activities within a few weeks or months, but it can take up to 6 months or more to achieve the full benefits of the surgery and to feel fully recovered.

It's important to note that pain management is an ongoing process and patients should communicate with their healthcare team if they experience any pain or discomfort during the recovery period.

Yes, physiotherapy can be effective in the management of knee pain. Physiotherapists are trained to assess and diagnose knee pain, and can provide a variety of treatments that can help reduce pain, improve function, and prevent further injury.

Some of the techniques that physiotherapists may use to help manage knee pain include:

• Exercise therapy: Physiotherapists may prescribe specific exercises to help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the knee. These exercises may include exercises to strengthen the quadriceps and hamstring muscles, as well as exercises to improve the flexibility of the knee and lower leg.
• Manual therapy: Physiotherapists may use techniques such as mobilization, manipulation, and massage to help reduce pain and improve function in the knee.
• Electrotherapy: Physiotherapists may use modalities such as ultrasound and TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) to manage pain and inflammation.
• Education and advice: Physiotherapists may provide advice and education on how to manage symptoms, prevent further injury, and maintain good knee health.
• Rehabilitation: Physiotherapists may help patients return to their normal activities by developing and supervising rehabilitation programs that focus on the knee.

It's important to note that knee pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, and the specific treatment approach will depend on the underlying cause of the pain. Physiotherapists will work with the patient to develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses the specific needs and goals of the patient.