Are You Too Old For Knee Replacement Surgery? 

A knee replacement may be needed for a number of reasons: to replace an older joint replacement, to repair an aging joint, or to reverse severe damage caused by an injury. If you’re discussing the potential for a knee replacement with your orthopedic doctor, but you’re “of a certain age,” you might be wondering: “Am I too old for a knee replacement?” It’s important to note that everyone is different, but there are a few age-related factors that can impact your candidacy for knee replacement surgery.

Factors associated with age 

Everyone ages differently and everyone’s body is different. That’s why it’s hard to say, definitively, that someone is “too old” to have knee replacement surgery. However, if you’re older (60 and above), there are some factors that could make your age a risk. These include:

• Smoking
• Obesity and diabetes
• Addiction (alcohol, drugs, etc.)
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Infections or diabetic wounds
• Osteoporosis 

However, most of these factors have more to do with your overall health than your age. As we get older, however, the odds that these conditions or health factors will impact our ability to recover increases. That’s why, for people who are older, it’s even more important to take your overall health into account. 

Health screenings before knee replacement 

The first thing your orthopedic professional will do, when knee replacement is being considered, is to run a full “work up.” This will include blood work, stress tests, medical history reviews, and imaging. Understanding your current health status inside and out will let your surgeon know what to expect when he or she starts operating, as well as how quickly you’ll recover. If any concerns crop up, you can address them so that you can go into the procedure with better odds.

Strength testing and exercise

Another component associated with poor recovery from surgery in “old age” is how fast muscle mass deteriorates. Older bodies don’t regenerate like younger bodies do, but that’s what is expected from the body after surgery. It has to recover itself, so doctors will usually recommend exercise tests to see how well your body can handle the stress. You may also be asked to exercise your body in ways that don’t injure your weak joint, to increase strength leading up to the surgery. This way, you won’t lose as much weight or muscle when you’re bedridden after surgery. 

Mental health assessments 

Mental health and mental conditions are another major part of recovery from any surgery. Your orthopedic surgeon will take into account your mental state, including your memory and any other mental health concerns they make have. Anesthesia, medication and pain can all majorly impact a brain that is already prone to forgetfulness or mood swings, so it’s important to know how you’ll react.

In general, there is no age where you’re “too old” for a knee replacement or any surgery. In fact, some people in their 70s may be better candidates that people in their 30s. It all depends on physical health and how well your body will recover after the surgery is over. Don’t assume your knee replacement surgery is out of reach just because you’re getting older! 

Orthopedic Corner | Leon Mead MD Orthopedic Doctor | 730 Goodlette Road North, Suite 201  Naples Florida 34102 | Phone: (239) 262-1119