Knee pain affects many women, especially as they reach their 50s and beyond. Whether it’s due to osteoarthritis, past injuries, or wear and tear over time, knee replacement surgery can be a life-changing step. But did you know that knee replacement can look, and feel, a bit different for women compared to men?
From joint alignment to implant sizing, there are unique considerations that matter when it comes to women’s knee health. If you’re a woman considering knee replacement, understanding these differences can help you have more informed conversations with your surgeon, and feel more confident about your treatment journey.
Why Knee Pain Shows Up Differently in Women
Many women report knee pain that builds gradually and becomes more constant over time. This can happen for several reasons:
- Hormonal changes, especially around menopause, can affect joint health and inflammation.
- Wider hips mean a different angle between the hip and knee (called the Q-angle), which puts more stress on the inner knee.
- Ligament laxity, women tend to have more flexible ligaments, which can affect stability.
- Differences in muscle strength and walking patterns may also lead to added wear on certain parts of the knee.
All of this means that knee issues in women often progress differently, and surgical planning needs to take these factors into account.
Implant Sizing and Shape: One Size Doesn’t Fit All
In the past, many knee implants were designed based on male anatomy. However, women generally have:
- Smaller and narrower knees
- Different contours of the thighbone
- Softer bone structure
Using an implant that’s too large, or not shaped correctly, can cause discomfort, stiffness, or unnatural movement after surgery. That’s why more orthopaedic surgeons are now using gender-aware sizing options or implants designed specifically to match female anatomy more closely.
It’s not about cosmetic differences, it’s about comfort, mobility, and long-term joint function.
Why Personalised Care Matters
A successful knee replacement isn’t just about placing a new joint, it’s about choosing the right implant size, aligning it properly, and creating a recovery plan that matches your needs. Personalised care can lead to:
- Improved range of motion
- Faster recovery
- Reduced risk of complications
- More natural joint movement
Women also tend to have different pain responses and recovery timelines, so tailoring pain management, physiotherapy, and exercise to the individual makes a big difference.
What You Should Ask Your Surgeon
Before moving forward with surgery, it’s helpful to have an open conversation with your orthopaedic surgeon. Here are some important questions to ask:
- Is my implant tailored to my size and anatomy?
Ask if your surgeon uses a range of implant sizes or systems that consider anatomical differences. - How will my knee be aligned during surgery?
Proper alignment is essential for function. Newer techniques, including robotic-assisted surgery, allow for precise customisation. - What does recovery look like for someone like me?
Understanding your expected timeline, rehabilitation needs, and any activity modifications helps set realistic expectations. - Will I be able to return to the activities I enjoy?
Whether it’s gardening, dancing, or hiking, make sure your recovery plan supports your goals. - Do you have experience treating women with knee conditions like mine?
Experience with different patient needs can lead to more thoughtful and supportive care.
You Deserve a Comfortable, Confident Recovery
Knee replacement can significantly improve quality of life, but how it’s done matters. For women, paying attention to anatomical differences and working with a surgeon who understands those nuances can lead to a smoother, more comfortable outcome.
At Liberty Orthopaedic Clinic, Dr Lee Eu Jin, Orthopaedic Doctor in Singapore, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, and Joint Replacement Specialist and Sports Surgeon, provides personalised care tailored to each patient’s needs, including women navigating knee pain and surgery.
If you’re considering knee replacement, contact Liberty Orthopaedic Clinic today to schedule a consultation. Let’s talk through your concerns, explore your options, and create a plan that helps you move with confidence.
