In Episode 55 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explains what doctors mean when they describe knee arthritis as bone-on-bone and why imaging findings alone do not determine the timing of knee replacement. The episode introduces the Kellgren–Lawrence grading scale used to classify osteoarthritis on X-ray and discusses how structural changes in the joint relate to symptoms, pain, and daily function. Listeners learn why treatment decisions are usually based on quality of life rather than imaging alone.What will you do before surgery? You need a clear checklist so you know exactly what to prepare, what to expect, and how to set yourself up for a smoother first week after surgery. totalkneesuccess.kit.com/free2weeklaunchThe Knee Replacement Game Plantotalkneesuccess.comMedical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan.Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.ReferencesKellgren JH, Lawrence JS. Radiological assessment of osteo-arthrosis. Ann Rheum Dis. 1957;16(4):494-502.Bedson J, Croft P. The discordance between clinical and radiographic knee osteoarthritis: a systematic search and summary of the literature. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2008;9:116.Hannan MT, Felson DT, Pincus T. Analysis of the discordance between radiographic changes and knee pain in osteoarthritis of the knee. J Rheumatol. 2000;27(6):1513-1517.Hunter DJ, Bierma-Zeinstra S. Osteoarthritis. Lancet. 2019;393(10182):1745-1759.Dowsey MM, Nikpour M, Dieppe P, Choong PF. Associations between pre-operative radiographic severity of knee osteoarthritis and patient-reported outcomes after total knee arthroplasty. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2012;20(10):1095-1102.Keurentjes JC, Fiocco M, So-Osman C, et al. Patients with severe radiographic osteoarthritis have a greater chance of improvement after total knee arthroplasty. Acta Orthop. 2013;84(5):488-494.Orange GM, Hince DA, Jones M, et al. Physical function following total knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis: a longitudinal systematic review with meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2025;55(1):1-14.

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