Been there done that! You do have to stop taking your RA meds before surgery, but as soon as it's over you can go back on. My rheumatologist never said I shouldn't have my knee replaced, as a matter of fact, he had both of his done at the same time. I've also had my hip replaced. It does give you a good idea of what works for you RA when you stop it for a week and found that my fish oil makes a big difference too. Well worth having it done.

Probably the reason your rheumy is not in favor of your surgery is because you can't take any of the meds you take for RD. That would be my guess. I haven't been faced with any kind of surgery yet, but dread when/if I have to make that choice.

I also went to a Ortho Dr and he gave me a lubrication shot and it seems better but now I have to start Physical Therepy for 6 weeks so I hope it helps

I am a surgical coordinate and manager for an Orthopaedic Group practice. Biological Age is not necessarily the criteria - it is the progression of the disease and a 30 yr old can have the knees of a 70 yr old. Knee replacements are very successful, however, the younger the patient, the more wear & tear. Our practice does outcome studies on joint replacements. I agree with LindaLe - get 2nd or even 3rd opinions. If you decide upon a knee replacement, the physical therapy is pretty tough because you need to get the desired range of motion. Considering that you have RA, chances are that you will most probably not be as active as most your age. Has the Dr suggested any intra-articular injections such as Synvisc One, Euflexxa ? If your arthritis is end-stage advanced (bone-on-bone) the injectables might be a waste. but ask about it. If it does help, you can have those injections every 6 months and it just might help . Some doctors will give cortisone injections but there are risks with having too many of those. Another option, which is expensive as insurance won't pay for these injections: PROZOLONE injection (also known as OZONE injections). We administer quite a few of those. It is homeopathic medication injected into the joint followed by Ozone from an Oxygen generator. I've had 3 treatments in my foot for an unrelated condition, our nurse, xray tech and receptionist have all had the injections. We gets ours free as employees however, we know some doctors charge $250-$300. If you can afford it, give it a try. it is safe, sanitizes the joint so there is NO risk of infection either. Good luck. Keep me posted.

Dee - I have had both knees replaced (2003 and 2009) - have no complaints. When the pain interferes with your daily activities, it is one of the many options available and for me it was the best one. I have never regretted having it done.