As an orthopaedic surgeon practising in Mumbai since more than 20 years, and having done more than 10k knee replacements, I see thousands of patients each year, many of whom come in with the same concerns they’ve been searching online. Knee replacements, hip pain, and arthritis are among the most common topics, and while the internet provides plenty of information, it often leaves people confused or anxious.
Through this blog, I want to simplify these concerns and answer the questions Mumbai searches for the most, directly from my experience and clinical practice.
1. When do I really need a knee replacement?
People often believe they must wait until the pain becomes unbearable, but that is not true.
From my clinical experience, the right time for knee replacement is when:
- Pain affects day-to-day movement
- Walking, climbing stairs, or standing becomes difficult
- Pain persists despite medications, physiotherapy, and lifestyle changes
- The knee becomes stiff or bowed
- Quality of life is significantly affected
A timely knee replacement not only reduces pain but also helps preserve mobility, strength, and independence. Waiting too long can lead to muscle weakness and more complicated surgery.
2. Are knee replacements safe and long-lasting?
Yes. Modern knee replacement surgery is extremely safe, with advancements in implants, techniques, and imaging.
Today’s knee implants last 20-25 years or more with proper care.
Minimally invasive surgical approaches allow faster recovery, smaller scars, and quicker return to routine.
Most of my patients walk the next day, and many resume normal activities within a few weeks.
3. Why do I experience hip pain even though I’m not old?
A common misconception is that hip problems only affect older adults. In reality, I treat many patients in their 30s and 40s with hip pain.
Common causes include:
- Early arthritis
- Hip impingement
- Labral tears
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Obesity
- Old injuries or unnoticed childhood hip conditions
Hip pain should never be ignored. Early diagnosis allows treatment with physiotherapy, medications, injections, or minimally invasive procedures, preventing long-term damage.
4. How can I tell if my hip pain needs medical evaluation?
If your hip pain:
- Persists for more than 2-3 weeks
- Spreads to the thigh or knee
- Causes a limp
- Worsens while climbing stairs or walking
- Interferes with sleep
- Restricts bending or rotating the leg
…it is time to see a specialist. Hip problems caught early respond extremely well to treatment.
5. What is the best treatment for arthritis?
There is no single treatment; arthritis care must be personalised.
I usually recommend a layered approach:
- Weight management
- Strengthening and physiotherapy
- Anti-inflammatory medicines
- Lifestyle modifications
- Joint injections (in selected cases)
- Surgical options for advanced arthritis
The goal is simple: reduce pain, improve movement, and protect the joint for as long as possible.
6. Can arthritis be cured?
Arthritis cannot be reversed, but its progression can be slowed dramatically with timely treatment and lifestyle changes.
Many of my patients continue to live active, pain-free lives for years with a structured, customised plan.
7. How do I know if my arthritis is worsening?
Common indicators include:
- Increasing pain despite medications
- Stiffness lasting longer in the morning
- Difficulty walking long distances
- Reduced flexibility
- Swelling after mild activity
- Grinding or locking sensations
If these symptoms are increasing, an evaluation is essential.
8. Is surgery the last resort?
Not necessarily, but it is never the first step either.
I always try non-surgical treatments first. However, when pain stops responding to conservative care, surgery becomes the most effective and long-term solution.
Modern joint surgeries are safe, predictable, and life-changing when done at the right time.
A Final Message From Me:
Your bones and joints form the foundation of your mobility and independence. Whether it’s knee pain, hip stiffness, or early arthritis, do not wait for symptoms to become severe. Early diagnosis and personalised treatment can prevent years of unnecessary pain.
