All articlesDeciding & Eligibility

Can Partial Knee Replacement Help With Arthritis?

Dr CR Oosthuizen 3 min read

Yes — it is the definitive surgical treatment for single-compartment osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis in the knee occurs when cartilage wears away, allowing bone to rub on bone. Partial knee replacement directly resurfaces the worn bone with metal and a polyethylene insert, removing the source of pain.

It is the most effective treatment available for single-compartment osteoarthritis once non-surgical care has been exhausted. Pain relief is dramatic and durable: published series report 90%+ pain relief at 10 years.

Inflammatory arthritis (rheumatoid, psoriatic) usually affects multiple compartments and is better treated with a total knee replacement, although exceptions exist when disease is well-controlled and confined to one compartment.

Next Step

Request an Appointment with Dr Oosthuizen

Reading about your knee is a great start. The next step is an individual assessment — share your details and we'll be in touch within one business day.

Handled in line with POPIA. Not for medical emergencies — call 10177 instead.

Educational content only. Prefer to speak first? Try the Knee Check or contact the rooms directly.

Consulting: Mon · Tue · Thu (AM)