Joint Replacement

Total Knee Replacement in Colorado Springs, CO

If chronic knee pain, stiffness, and arthritis are limiting your ability to walk, stay active, or enjoy everyday life, total knee replacement may provide lasting pain relief and improved mobility. At Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group (CSOG), our joint replacement specialists perform advanced total knee replacement procedures to help patients throughout Colorado Springs and Southern Colorado regain function and return to the activities they enjoy. Using modern surgical techniques, advanced implant technology, and personalized rehabilitation plans, our orthopedic team is committed to delivering exceptional outcomes for patients suffering from severe knee arthritis and joint degeneration.

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Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group

Sports injuries can happen to competitive athletes, active adults, weekend athletes, and anyone who enjoys staying physically active. Whether caused by an acute injury or repetitive stress, these problems can affect your performance and keep you from doing the activities you enjoy.

CSOG provides comprehensive sports medicine care for a wide range of injuries and conditions affecting the joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Our specialists emphasize accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment, with options that may include rehabilitation, physical therapy, injections, minimally invasive procedures, and surgery when necessary.

Our approach is focused not only on treating the immediate injury but also on helping you safely regain strength, mobility, and confidence. The goal is to help you return to your sport or activity at the appropriate stage of recovery.

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What is a Joint Replacement?

Joint replacement is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or worn-out joint, typically due to arthritis or injury, is replaced with an artificial joint or prosthesis. The goal of joint replacement surgery is to relieve pain, improve joint function, and enhance the quality of life for individuals who have severe joint problems.

A joint is an articulation (junction) between 2 or more bones in the body. Muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and other soft tissue structures hold the joint in position.

The most frequently replaced joints are the hip, knee, and shoulder. Other joints, like the ankle, elbow, and finger joints, can also be replaced but are less common. The artificial joint, known as a prosthesis, is typically made of metal, ceramic, and/or plastic materials that are durable and compatible with the body.

Types of Joint Replacement

Total Joint Replacement: The entire joint is replaced with an artificial one.

Partial Joint Replacement: Only the damaged part of the joint is replaced, preserving as much of the natural joint as possible.

Indications for Joint Replacement

Joint replacement is typically recommended for the treatment of arthritis when other treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, or joint injections have failed to alleviate symptoms like chronic pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. Arthritis is a condition in which the articular cartilage that covers the joint surface is damaged or worn out, causing significant pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joint. Joint replacement surgery is usually employed to treat symptoms of arthritis. The goal of the surgery is to relieve pain and restore the normal functioning of the joint. The two most common joint replacement surgeries are knee replacement and hip replacement.

Preparation for Joint Replacement

In general, preparation for joint replacement may include the following:

A thorough consultation with your orthopedic surgeon who will evaluate your joint condition, medical history, and overall health to determine if a joint replacement is suitable for you.
Detailed imaging studies, such as X-rays or CT scans to capture the joint anatomy in three dimensions. These images are used to design a customized surgical plan.
A review of your medications or supplements you are taking and any allergies you may have.
Your surgeon may instruct you to avoid certain medications and supplements that can thin the blood and increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.
You should not consume solids or liquids at least 8 hours prior to surgery.
A signed informed consent form will be obtained from you after the pros and cons of the surgery have been explained.

Procedure for Joint Replacement

In general, joint replacement surgery is performed under general or regional anesthesia and typically involves the following steps:

The surgeon makes an incision over the joint to access the damaged area. The size and location of the incision depend on the joint being replaced and the surgical technique used.
The surgeon carefully separates the soft tissues and moves tendons and nerves aside to expose the damaged joint.
The damaged or diseased parts of the joint, including bone, cartilage, and any other structures that are no longer functional are carefully removed.
The surfaces of the bones are prepared to fit the new artificial joint components. This might involve shaping or smoothing the bone to accommodate the prosthesis.
The artificial joint components are inserted into the joint space. The components are designed to mimic the natural movement of the joint.
The prosthesis is secured to the bone using bone cement or a press-fit technique, where the prosthesis is designed to fit tightly into the bone. Over time, the bone may grow into the prosthesis to secure it further.
The surgeon carefully aligns the joint and tests its movement to ensure proper function and stability.
After confirming satisfactory repair, the soft tissues are repositioned, and the incision is closed with sutures or staples. A sterile dressing is applied to the wound.

Postoperative Care and Recovery

Postoperative care and recovery after joint replacement may include the following:

After joint replacement, the patient is typically placed in assistive devices such as casts, slings, crutches, or walkers to promote healing and facilitate mobility.
Early mobilization is encouraged, often on the same day or the day after surgery to prevent complications such as blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
The patient may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort in the treatment area. Pain and anti-inflammatory medications are provided as needed to address these.
The length of stay in the hospital varies, typically ranging from 1 to 3 days, depending on the joint replaced and the patient's overall health.
Activity guidelines are provided including refraining from lifting heavy weights and high-intensity activities for a defined period.
A physical therapy protocol is started to restore range of motion, strength, and function to the joint.
Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon are scheduled to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Risks and Complications

Risks and complications associated with joint replacement include:

Infection
Bleeding
Pain
Blood clots or DVT
Implant loosening or failure
Nerve damage
General anesthesia risks

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Why Choose Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group for Total Knee Replacement?

Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group is a trusted leader in joint replacement care, providing comprehensive treatment for knee arthritis and degenerative joint conditions. Our experienced orthopedic surgeons utilize advanced diagnostic tools, state-of-the-art implant technology, and evidence-based surgical techniques to help patients achieve long-term pain relief and improved quality of life. From your initial consultation through surgery and rehabilitation, our team delivers personalized care focused on restoring mobility, independence, and confidence.

Patients choose CSOG for total knee replacement because we offer:

Experienced fellowship-trained joint replacement specialists
Comprehensive evaluation and advanced diagnostic imaging
Modern knee replacement implants and surgical techniques
Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs and goals
Integrated physical therapy and rehabilitation services
Multiple convenient locations throughout Colorado Springs
Coordinated care from diagnosis through recovery
A patient-centered approach focused on long-term joint health and function

Total Knee Replacement FAQs

Who is a candidate for total knee replacement?

Patients with severe knee arthritis, chronic knee pain, stiffness, and loss of function that have not improved with medications, injections, physical therapy, or other conservative treatments may be candidates for total knee replacement.

What conditions are commonly treated with total knee replacement?

Total knee replacement is most often performed for osteoarthritis, but it may also be recommended for rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and other conditions that cause significant joint damage.

How long does total knee replacement surgery take?

Most total knee replacement procedures take approximately one to two hours, although surgical times can vary depending on the complexity of the case.

When can I walk after total knee replacement?

Most patients begin standing and walking with assistance on the day of surgery or the following day as part of their rehabilitation program.

How long does recovery take after total knee replacement?

Many patients experience significant improvement within several weeks, but full recovery and optimal functional outcomes may take several months.

Will I need physical therapy?

Yes. Physical therapy is an essential part of recovery and helps restore knee strength, flexibility, mobility, and overall function.

How long do knee replacement implants last?

Modern knee replacement implants are designed for long-term durability and may last 15 to 20 years or longer, depending on activity level, overall health, and implant type.

What are the risks of total knee replacement surgery?

Potential risks include infection, blood clots, stiffness, nerve or blood vessel injury, implant loosening, instability, and other surgical complications. Your surgeon will discuss these risks during your consultation.

Schedule a Total Knee Replacement Consultation in Colorado Springs, CO

If knee arthritis or chronic knee pain is preventing you from enjoying the activities you love, the joint replacement specialists at Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group can help. Our team provides comprehensive evaluation and advanced total knee replacement solutions designed to relieve pain, improve mobility, and restore quality of life.

Contact CSOG today to schedule a consultation at one of our convenient Colorado Springs locations. Our experienced orthopedic specialists proudly serve patients throughout Colorado Springs and Southern Colorado with personalized joint replacement care focused on helping patients move more comfortably and return to active, independent living.

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