6 Signs It's Time to See a Knee Revision Specialist

Most knee replacements are designed to last for many years, but they aren’t guaranteed to function perfectly forever. Over time, some implants can loosen, wear down, or cause discomfort. When this happens, recognizing the early warning signs is key to protecting your mobility and maintaining your overall quality of life.

At Indiana Orthopedic, board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Timothy J. Williams, MD, brings over 20 years of experience in hip and revision knee surgery, helping patients in Noblesville, Terre Haute, and the Greater Indianapolis area get back on their feet when a previous implant no longer performs as expected. If you've had a knee replacement but are still struggling with pain or instability, we're here to help you explore safe, advanced solutions.

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Let’s look at six clear signs that may indicate your knee replacement is failing, and how to know when it’s time to see a knee revision specialist.

1. Persistent Pain That Doesn't Improve

Mild discomfort is expected during recovery, but long-term or worsening pain months or years after surgery is not. Pain that interferes with daily activities, sleep, or mobility could mean that your implant is loose, misaligned, or causing inflammation.

Some patients describe this pain as dull and achy, while others report sharp or burning sensations during walking, bending, or even resting. If over-the-counter medications and physical therapy no longer provide relief, it's time to consult a knee revision specialist near me to evaluate the cause.

Pain after knee replacement can stem from:

• Implant loosening or wear

• Inflammatory responses

• Instability or soft tissue damage

• Infection within the joint

Getting a prompt evaluation can prevent worsening joint damage and open the door to effective treatment options.

2. Ongoing Swelling and Inflammation

Swelling is normal during the first few weeks after surgery. However, if your knee remains swollen or appears warm, red, or puffy well beyond the healing period, it may signal an underlying issue.

Chronic swelling can be caused by:

• An infected implant

• Joint instability

• Synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining)

• Wear-and-tear debris triggering an immune response

Left untreated, joint inflammation can damage surrounding tissues, reduce your range of motion, and increase pain. If ice, elevation, and rest aren’t helping, it’s time to see an orthopedic knee specialist near me for a detailed diagnostic workup, including imaging and lab tests.

3. Difficulty Walking or Limited Mobility

A properly functioning knee replacement should restore your ability to walk, climb stairs, and carry out normal activities with ease. If you're finding it more challenging to move than before your surgery, or if stiffness is returning, it may be a sign your implant isn’t working as intended.

You may notice:

• Difficulty bearing weight on the knee

• A stiff, locked, or tight feeling

• Reduced ability to bend or extend the joint

• A visible change in leg alignment

These issues can stem from implant wear, loosening, or even soft tissue imbalances. Seeking help from an orthopedic specialist near me ensures you don’t delay treatment and risk further complications that may require a more complex revision later.

4. A Sense of Instability or Buckling

A common red flag of a failing knee replacement is the feeling that your knee might give out, especially when going down stairs, standing from a chair, or walking on uneven ground.

This instability can result from:

• Loose or shifted components

• Ligament or tendon imbalance

• Worn-out polyethylene spacer

• An infection that weakens joint structures

Not only is instability uncomfortable, but it also puts you at a higher risk of falls and injury. If you're starting to compensate by limping or avoiding certain movements, it's best to consult a knee revision specialist near me to identify the source and explore treatment options tailored to your condition.

5. Clicking, Grinding, or Noisy Movement

Your knee replacement should move quietly and smoothly. If you begin to hear or feel:

• Clicking or popping sounds

• Grinding or crunching sensations

• Sudden catching during motion

These may indicate mechanical wear or improper implant positioning. In some cases, worn or damaged components may be rubbing together or shifting during use, contributing to increased joint stress.

While occasional mild noise can be normal, consistent sounds accompanied by pain, instability, or stiffness should be assessed by an orthopedic surgeon near me experienced in revision procedures. Early intervention can preserve bone and reduce the need for more invasive correction.

6. Past Surgery Isn’t Holding Up or Infection Is Present

Sometimes, a knee implant may fail due to reasons outside of your control. If you’ve had:

• A previous knee surgery that hasn't relieved symptoms

• An infection after joint replacement

• Revision surgery that didn’t improve function

• Chronic drainage from the surgical site

It’s important to act quickly. Infections can erode tissue and bone around the implant, making revision more complex the longer it’s delayed.

Dr. Williams specializes in complex revision hip and knee surgeries, including cases involving infection, instability, and previously failed procedures. If you're unsure whether revision is right for you, a consultation can provide clarity and help you decide on the best next step.

When to Consult a Knee Revision Specialist

It’s important not to ignore warning signs or wait until the problem becomes urgent. If your quality of life is declining due to knee pain, swelling, or instability, and conservative treatments have failed, a revision consultation is a smart next step.

During your visit, we’ll perform a comprehensive evaluation including:

• Diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRI, or bone scans)

• Physical exam and gait analysis

• Review of your surgical and medical history

• Discussion of symptoms, limitations, and treatment goals

You’ll receive an honest assessment and a personalized plan for what comes next, whether it’s continued monitoring, non-surgical care, or a recommendation for revision surgery.

Don’t Wait—Get Expert Help for Knee Implant Concerns

Recognizing the signs of a failing knee replacement is the first step toward regaining control of your mobility and comfort. Whether you're experiencing chronic pain, joint instability, or reduced function, expert revision surgery may offer relief. At Indiana Orthopedic, Dr. Timothy J. Williams brings decades of expertise in hip and knee revision surgery, utilizing advanced joint replacement techniques and a patient-focused approach. 

To schedule a consultation, call our Noblesville office at (317) 620-0232 or our Terre Haute location at (812) 900-7544. Let us help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

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