Q. Why is knee replacement more painful than hip replacement?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Knee replacement is generally considered to be more painful than hip replacement for several reasons. Firstly, the knee joint is a complex combination of bones, tendons and ligaments that must all work together in order for it to function properly. This means that when you replace the joint, the surgeon has to work harder to ensure everything ends up in its proper place, which can lead to more pain during recovery. Secondly, because the knee joints are so much smaller than hip joints they take longer and require greater accuracy during surgery—another factor leading to increased discomfort after surgery. And finally, while both types of operations involve cutting through muscle tissue on either side of the joint being replaced, with a knee replacement there may also be additional bone removal necessary since you need room for your new prosthetic device – this too can contribute to more post-operative sensations in your leg after surgery.