If you are searching for an orthopedic surgeon in Orlando because knee pain is interfering with your daily life, you are not alone. Persistent knee arthritis can gradually limit your mobility, disrupt sleep, and prevent you from enjoying the activities you once loved. At Greater Orlando Orthopedic Group, our specialists always begin with conservative, non-surgical treatments. But when those options no longer provide relief, knee replacement surgery — including robotic-assisted and partial knee replacement — may be the next step toward restoring function and quality of life.
“Our goal is always to exhaust appropriate non-surgical options first,” says Dr. Ron Hudanich. “But there comes a point when the joint damage is too advanced and the pain is too limiting. That’s when knee replacement can truly change someone’s quality of life.”
So how do you know when you’ve reached that point?
Here are the top three signs.
There’s a big difference between soreness after activity and persistent, daily pain.
If you’re experiencing:
Constant aching, even at rest
Pain that wakes you up at night
Swelling that doesn’t resolve
Increasing stiffness that limits bending or straightening
…it may signal advanced arthritis or joint damage.
Many patients say the same thing before surgery: “I didn’t realize how much of my life I had given up.”
One patient shared:
“I stopped walking my dog. I avoided stairs. Even grocery shopping became an ordeal. I thought it was just part of getting older — but it wasn’t.”
If pain is dictating what you can and can’t do, that’s a red flag.
Knee replacement is never the starting point at Greater Orlando Orthopedic Group.
The physicians typically begin with:
Activity modification
Physical therapy
Anti-inflammatory medications
Injections
Bracing and supportive care
“Our philosophy is conservative first,” says Dr. Robert Meuret. “If we can help a patient avoid surgery safely and effectively, we will.”
But when these options stop providing relief — or only offer short-lived improvement — it may mean the joint surface has deteriorated beyond what non-surgical care can fix.
If you find yourself thinking, “Nothing seems to last anymore,” it may be time for a surgical discussion.
Symptoms matter — but imaging tells part of the story, too.
When cartilage wears down completely, bone begins rubbing on bone. That leads to:
Severe arthritis
Bone spurs
Joint deformity
Loss of alignment
At that stage, the body simply can’t repair itself.
“Knee replacement isn’t about age,” Dr. Meuret tells patients. “It’s about function and quality of life. If imaging shows advanced arthritis and the patient’s lifestyle is significantly limited, that’s when we talk seriously about surgery.”
If surgery becomes the right choice, patients at Greater Orlando Orthopedic Group have advanced options available.
The practice offers robotic-assisted knee replacement, which allows surgeons to:
Create a personalized surgical plan
Improve implant positioning and alignment
Preserve healthy bone and muscle
Potentially enhance recovery and outcomes
Robotic technology provides precision — but it’s still the surgeon’s expertise guiding every decision.
Not every patient needs a total knee replacement.
If arthritis is confined to one compartment of the knee, a partial knee replacement may be appropriate. Benefits can include:
Smaller incision
Preservation of healthy ligaments and bone
More natural knee motion
Faster recovery for some patients
“Partial knee replacement is a fantastic option for the right patient,” explains Dr. Brian Vickaryous. “It’s less invasive and allows us to treat only the damaged portion of the joint.”
The key is individualized evaluation.
Patients often say the same thing after recovery:
“I wish I hadn’t waited so long.”
Another might share:
“I was nervous about surgery, but I’m back to golfing, traveling, and walking without thinking about every step.”
Knee replacement isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about restoring function, reducing pain, and helping you return to the activities that matter most.
And at Greater Orlando Orthopedic Group, surgery is never pushed — it’s carefully considered.
“We’re not here to operate on everyone who walks through the door,” says Dr. Hudanich. “We’re here to find the right solution — whether that’s therapy, injections, partial replacement, robotic-assisted surgery, or simply education and reassurance.”
If you:
Have persistent knee pain lasting months
Struggle with daily activities
Aren’t improving with conservative care
Have been told you have advanced arthritis
…it may be time to explore your options.
An evaluation doesn’t mean you’re committing to surgery. It means you’re getting answers.
And sometimes, that’s the first step toward getting your life back.
Read More On Our Knee FAQs here.
Our complete information on knee conditions here.
e — stronger, more confidently, and pain‑free. Call (407) 977-4130 today to schedule a consultation.