Which musculoskeletal condition is usually treated with a total knee replacement?

Severe osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the deterioration of cartilage and the underlying bone, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the affected joints. In cases where osteoarthritis severely affects the knee joint and other non-surgical treatments (like physical therapy, medications, or injections) have failed to provide relief, a total knee replacement is often the recommended surgical intervention.

During a total knee replacement, the damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with artificial components, allowing for restored function and reduction of pain. This procedure is particularly effective for individuals whose daily life is significantly impacted by knee pain due to severe osteoarthritis, thus improving their quality of life.

In contrast, a fractured femur typically requires fixation or repair rather than joint replacement, as the primary concern is to stabilize the fracture. A patellar tendon rupture usually involves repair of the tendon itself rather than replacing the knee joint. Muscle strains are treated with conservative management, including rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy, thus not necessitating a surgical procedure like a knee replacement.