7 Warning Signs Of Knee Joint Problems You Shouldn’t Ignore – Warns Top Orthopedic Surgeon Dr Karthik Gudaru
Knee pain is one of the most common health concerns that affect people as they age, but it can also impact younger individuals due to injury, arthritis, or lifestyle factors. While medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes may provide relief in the early stages, sometimes the damage progresses to a point where these treatments are no longer effective.
That’s when a knee replacement may become the best solution. Recognizing the right time for surgery can make all the difference in restoring mobility, reducing pain, and improving quality of life says Dr Karthik Gudaru, Hyderabad and Telangana’s top orthopedic surgeon for knee replacement surgery.
What is Knee Replacement?
Knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or worn-out knee joint is replaced with an artificial implant. Dr Karthik Gudaru who is the leading knee replacement surgeon, specialist in Hyderabad says this procedure is typically recommended when the knee joint is severely affected by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or injury-related degeneration. The goal of knee replacement is to relieve pain, restore function, and help patients return to their normal daily activities with improved comfort and mobility.
7 Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Persistent Pain that Doesn’t Respond to Medication
If pain continues despite using painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, or other treatments, it’s a strong sign that your knee may need surgical intervention.
Difficulty Walking or Climbing Stairs
When daily movements such as walking, standing for long periods, or climbing stairs become challenging, it may indicate advanced joint damage.
Severe Stiffness and Limited Range of Motion
If your knee feels stiff, swollen, and you cannot bend or straighten it properly, it may suggest the joint is deteriorating beyond repair.
Frequent Swelling and Inflammation
Chronic swelling that doesn’t go away with rest, ice, or medication can be a red flag for significant joint damage.
Deformity of the Knee Joint
Visible changes, such as bowing of the leg or misalignment, can signal that the knee joint is wearing out unevenly.
Sleep Disturbances Due to Pain
When knee pain becomes so severe that it interrupts sleep, it indicates a serious stage of arthritis or joint damage.
Non-Surgical Treatments No Longer Work
If physical therapy, injections, or lifestyle adjustments fail to provide relief, surgery may be the next step to restore function.
Living with constant knee pain doesn’t just affect mobility—it impacts independence and overall quality of life. A knee replacement is not always the first treatment option, but when these warning signs appear, it might be time to discuss the surgery with an orthopedic specialist. Early decision-making can lead to a smoother recovery and a more active, pain-free life.
Dr. Karthik Gudaru has successfully performed a wide range of advanced orthopedic surgeries, including Total Knee Replacements, Hip and Shoulder Replacements, Elbow Joint Surgeries, and complex pediatric orthopedic procedures. He has a special expertise in robotic and computer-assisted surgeries, sports injury management, and regenerative orthopedics. His key areas of specialization include Robotic Knee Replacement, Shoulder Arthroscopy, Revision Hip Surgery, Spine Surgery, PRP & Stem Cell Therapy, and pediatric conditions like cerebral palsy, congenital deformities, and polio sequelae.