Be sure to bring a written list of medications you are taking as well as your medical history, including surgeries and treatments not related to your knees.

Tell your surgeon if:

• You are using the maximum daily dose of pain or anti-inflammatory medicine, and you still have knee pain
• You are not getting relief from your prescription pain medication
• You have trouble sleeping because of the pain in your knee
• Your knee bothers you constantly
• You find it difficult to climb even a few stairs

Don’t be embarrassed about asking questions. It’s important that you understand what knee replacement surgery is all about. Here are some questions you may want to ask your surgeon:

• Can knee replacement surgery relieve my pain and stiffness?
• Is age a factor in knee replacement surgery?
• Are there replacement knees available that can bend and rotate, offering more natural movement?
• Am I a good candidate for knee replacement surgery? Why?
• What are the benefits and risks of knee replacement surgery?
• How long does recovery and rehabilitation take after the surgery?
• What does rehabilitation involve?
• Would I be able to resume my daily activities after the surgery?
• How long will my replacement knee last?
• What can I do to make the surgery most successful?