A plain-language guide to what happens between your first sore knee and full recovery — so you know exactly what to expect at every stage.
Most people come in because knee pain has started to shape their day — climbing stairs, standing up from a chair, sleeping through the night or keeping up on a walk. Recognising the pattern is the first step.
Knee Check is a free, two-minute online screening. It asks about your symptoms and gives Dr Oosthuizen enough information to decide whether a consultation is the right next step — or whether something simpler will help.
Book by phone or through the online form. Consulting happens on set mornings at Johannesburg Surgical Hospital and Life Wilgeheuwel — pick whichever is easier to reach.
Dr Oosthuizen takes a full history, examines the knee, and reviews your imaging. He grades the arthritis using the KOGS system and talks through every option — from physiotherapy and injections to partial or full knee replacement — so you can make the decision that fits your life.
If surgery is the right step, we discuss whether a partial knee replacement (resurfacing only the worn side of the joint) or a full knee replacement suits you better. The rooms handle the medical-aid authorisation, the hospital booking, and the pre-operative tests.
You arrive at the hospital in the morning, meet the anaesthetist, and are in theatre soon after. A partial knee replacement typically takes about an hour; a full knee replacement takes a little longer. You wake in recovery with pain well controlled and are usually up on your feet the same day.
Most patients spend two to three nights in hospital and start physiotherapy immediately. Recovery is gradual but steady — small wins every week. Dr Oosthuizen and the physio team stay involved through every follow-up.
Start with a two-minute Knee Check, or book a consultation directly. Either way, Dr Oosthuizen will meet you where you are.
If you experience an orthopaedic emergency outside of consulting hours, please report immediately to the Casualty Department at either Johannesburg Surgical Hospital (JSH) or Life Wilgeheuwel Hospital for assessment and treatment. The casualty doctors will provide the necessary emergency care and arrange specialist orthopaedic referral if required.