Common Conditions That Lead to Knee Surgery

Osteoarthritis is the most common reason people undergo knee surgery, particularly among older adults. This condition occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down. As the cartilage deteriorates, bones begin to rub against each other, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility.

In its early stages, osteoarthritis can often be managed with physical therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and joint injections. As the disease progresses, these conservative treatments may no longer provide relief. At this point, many patients turn to surgical options such as high-tech knee replacement procedures, which use advanced materials and precision techniques to restore joint function. Modern replacements are designed to last longer and offer better outcomes than previous generations, making surgery a viable solution for severe cases.

Traumatic Injuries and Ligament Damage

Sports injuries, car accidents, and falls are common causes of traumatic knee damage. Ligament injuries, such as tears to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), are prevalent among athletes. When ligaments tear, they compromise the knee’s stability, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight.

Some ligament injuries can heal with rehabilitation, bracing, and rest, but complete tears often require surgical reconstruction to restore full function. Surgery is typically followed by a structured physical therapy program to rebuild strength and mobility. Without surgical intervention, severe ligament injuries may lead to chronic instability or increase the risk of developing arthritis in the future.

Meniscus Tears and Cartilage Damage

The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between the femur and tibia. Meniscus tears are common, particularly in individuals who twist or pivot suddenly during sports or physical activities. Degenerative meniscus tears can occur in older adults as the cartilage weakens with age.

Symptoms of a meniscus tear include pain, swelling, locking of the knee, and limited range of motion. Minor tears can sometimes heal on their own with rest and physical therapy, but larger or more complex tears often require arthroscopic surgery. During this minimally invasive procedure, surgeons remove or repair the damaged cartilage, alleviating pain and restoring function. Untreated meniscus injuries can accelerate joint degeneration, increasing the likelihood of needing more extensive surgery later on.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Other Inflammatory Conditions

Unlike osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks joint tissues. This chronic inflammation can damage cartilage, ligaments, and bone, leading to pain, swelling, deformity, and loss of function. Other inflammatory conditions, such as lupus and psoriatic arthritis, can have similar effects on the knee joint.

When medications, lifestyle modifications, and joint injections fail to control the symptoms or prevent further joint destruction, surgery becomes a necessary step. Procedures can range from synovectomy (removal of inflamed joint tissue) to total knee replacement, depending on the severity of the damage.

Congenital or Structural Abnormalities

Some individuals are born with structural abnormalities in the knee joint or develop them as they grow. Conditions such as misalignment of the patella (kneecap), limb length discrepancies, or abnormal bone development can cause uneven wear on the knee joint. These structural issues may lead to pain, instability, and an increased risk of injury.

When conservative treatments like bracing, orthotics, and targeted physical therapy do not correct the underlying problem, surgical intervention may be required. Surgeons can realign bones, stabilize the kneecap, or perform corrective procedures to improve joint mechanics and prevent further damage. Addressing structural issues early can reduce the likelihood of future complications and delay the need for more extensive surgeries.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Even after an injury heals, the knee can develop post-traumatic arthritis. This condition occurs when an injury damages cartilage or alters joint mechanics, accelerating degenerative changes. Unlike typical osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis may develop at a younger age and progress more rapidly.

Patients with post-traumatic arthritis often experience pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility similar to other forms of arthritis. Depending on the severity, treatment may involve physical therapy, injections, or surgery. When the damage is extensive, joint replacement may be recommended to restore function and relieve pain.