Who out there is excited about a knee replacement? Probably very few so most folks want to know how to avoid a knee replacement.

The answer?

Start working now. Be proactive in your late 30s, 40s, or 50s. Try not to wait until pain really starts to limit your life and activities. BUT that is not how most people act, so let’s discuss what to do when those knees begin to be troublesome. There are some key signs to be on the lookout for to know when it is time to get moving.

What are those signs?

When it starts to be an effort getting up from a chair. When walking up steps becomes work, and you have to pause at the top of the steps to plan your effort walking down the steps. There is also that stiffness upon rising from bed or after sitting for more than 30 minutes. Finally pain with activity. When any of these appear, it is time to do something about it.

And the sooner the better. Generally the greater the pain and activity limitation, the harder and longer it takes to get to the other side. But the good news is that even if you have knee pain or activity limitation there is hope to keep your knees yours. If you are willing to put in the work to strengthen the legs, improve mobility/flexibility, work on balance and endurance there is hope. And as mentioned before do not wait until the situation is truly untenable.

But I was told I am going to need a knee replacement anyway so why bother?

Well, just because you are told that does not mean it must come true. And if a replacement should be necessary in the future then the better shape you go into it, generally the better the outcome. Weak and stiff knees before surgery does not bode well for recovery.

Bottom line – take action now to avoid a knee replacement.

Don’t know where to begin? Click this LINK to speak with an expert who can guide you through the steps necessary to avoid a knee replacement.