Orthopaedic services
Knee replacement assessment in Whanganui
Knee arthritis can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, reduced walking tolerance and difficulty with stairs or uneven ground. Assessment focuses on whether the knee joint is the main source of symptoms and which treatment options make sense.
In brief
- Knee symptoms are assessed alongside examination findings and imaging.
- Non-operative care may remain useful for some people.
- Knee replacement may be discussed where symptoms and imaging fit and other measures are no longer appropriate.
Common reasons for referral
Pain with activity
Pain may occur with walking, stairs, kneeling, standing from a chair or longer periods on your feet.
Swelling or stiffness
The knee may feel tight, swollen or less predictable, especially on stairs, uneven ground or when standing from a chair.
Reduced confidence
Symptoms may affect work, sleep, exercise and day-to-day plans.
What assessment involves
Mr Thompson will discuss your symptoms, previous treatment, medications, general health and goals. Examination and imaging review help determine whether symptoms match the degree and pattern of joint change.
Sometimes further imaging or treatment through another pathway may be more appropriate before surgery is considered.
What is useful to bring
Knee imaging, referral notes, current medicines and treatment already tried are useful.
Treatment options
Non-operative options may include physiotherapy, activity changes, weight management when useful, braces or supports, medication through your usual clinician, injections in selected situations and time for symptoms to settle.
When surgery or a procedure may be discussed
Knee replacement may be discussed when symptoms, examination findings and imaging are consistent, and non-operative measures are no longer appropriate. The discussion includes likely benefits, limitations, possible risks, recovery expectations and alternatives.
Recovery and next steps
Planning depends on the type of funding pathway, overall health and any investigations needed before treatment. Recovery is individual and includes wound healing, swelling control, movement, strength and gradual return to appropriate activities.
Funding requirements depend on the funder and clinical situation.
Make an appointment enquiry
For non-urgent appointment or referral questions, please contact the clinic.
Patient information
A one-page summary is available for patients and referrers. It is general information only and does not replace personalised advice.