Skip Menu

When Is It Time to Consider Knee Replacement?

July 15, 2026

Knee pain can affect nearly every aspect of daily life—from walking and climbing stairs to enjoying hobbies and spending time with family. While occasional discomfort may improve with rest or conservative treatment, persistent knee pain can signal a more serious underlying condition, such as osteoarthritis or joint damage.

At Highland District Hospital, our orthopedic team offers comprehensive evaluation and treatment options for patients experiencing chronic knee pain, including advanced knee replacement procedures designed to help restore mobility and improve quality of life.

  1. Persistent Pain Is Limiting Your Daily Activities

One of the most common signs that it may be time to consider knee replacement is pain that interferes with normal activities.

You may notice:

  • Difficulty walking long distances
  • Pain when climbing stairs
  • Trouble getting in and out of chairs
  • Reduced participation in hobbies or exercise
  • Increased dependence on others for daily tasks

If knee pain is preventing you from living the lifestyle you enjoy, an orthopedic evaluation may help determine the best treatment options.

  1. Conservative Treatments No Longer Provide Relief

Many patients successfully manage knee pain through non-surgical treatments, including:

  • Physical therapy
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Activity modification
  • Joint injections
  • Weight management strategies

However, when these approaches no longer provide lasting relief, it may be time to discuss additional options with an orthopedic specialist.

A thorough evaluation can help determine whether continued conservative care or surgical intervention is the most appropriate next step.

  1. Arthritis Is Affecting Your Mobility

Osteoarthritis is one of the leading causes of chronic knee pain and disability. As cartilage wears away over time, patients may experience:

  • Joint stiffness
  • Swelling
  • Grinding or clicking sensations
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Increased pain with activity

For individuals with advanced arthritis, knee replacement surgery may help relieve pain and improve function when other treatments are no longer effective.

  1. Advanced Knee Replacement Options Are Available

Today's knee replacement procedures continue to evolve, providing patients with more treatment options than ever before.

Highland District Hospital offers advanced knee replacement techniques, including the Jiffy Knee™ procedure, a muscle-and-tendon-sparing approach to total knee replacement. This technique is designed to minimize disruption to surrounding soft tissues during surgery by preserving key muscles and tendons around the knee joint.

 

Unlike traditional knee replacement approaches, the Jiffy Knee™ procedure is a proprietary technique that requires specialized training and certification. As a result, only a limited number of orthopedic surgeons are qualified to perform the procedure.

Highland District Hospital is proud to offer patients access to this advanced treatment option close to home while continuing to provide comprehensive orthopedic care across a wide range of conditions and procedures.

Potential benefits may include:

  • Earlier mobility following surgery
  • Reduced post-operative discomfort
  • Faster recovery milestones
  • Improved confidence during rehabilitation

Not every patient is a candidate for every procedure, which is why personalized evaluation and treatment planning remain essential.

  1. You Want to Return to the Activities You Enjoy

Many patients delay treatment because they assume knee pain is simply part of aging. While joint changes can occur over time, chronic pain should not prevent you from enjoying life.

Whether your goal is walking comfortably, traveling, spending time with grandchildren, or returning to recreational activities, orthopedic care may help you regain mobility and confidence.

The first step is understanding your options and developing a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Comprehensive Orthopedic Care at Highland District Hospital

Board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Alex Renshaw provides comprehensive orthopedic care for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. Fellowship trained in shoulder and elbow, Dr. Renshaw specializes in total joint replacement, fracture care, sports medicine, and advanced orthopedic procedures.

In addition to knee replacement, Highland District Hospital offers:

  • Hip replacement
  • Shoulder replacement
  • Reverse shoulder replacement
  • Arthroscopic shoulder surgery
  • Arthroscopic knee surgery
  • Sports medicine care
  • Fracture care
  • General orthopedic services

Take the Next Step

If knee pain is affecting your mobility, independence, or quality of life, don't wait to explore your options.

Schedule a consultation with Highland District Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine to learn more about available treatments, including advanced knee replacement procedures designed to help you move with confidence once again. Call 947.840.6700.

Highland District Hospital
Exceptional care. Exceptional service. Every time.