'It's a Myth': Udaipur Surgeon Busts Fear Around Knee Replacement Safety

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Dr Ashish Singhal says patients delaying surgery over safety fears are often missing out on a pain-free, active life — including walking, driving and even sitting cross-legged

Udaipur, India — For many patients facing joint pain, one question comes up more than any other: "Is knee replacement surgery actually safe?" According to Dr Ashish Singhal, Orthopedic and Robotic Joint Replacement Surgeon at Paras Hospital and Mahe Clinic, Udaipur, the answer is a firm yes — and the fear surrounding it is largely a myth.

"This is the most common question my patients ask me," Dr Singhal said. "But it's a myth. We perform surgery to help people walk again, climb stairs, drive, and return to their everyday routines."

Dr Singhal added that with advances in robotic-assisted joint replacement, recovery outcomes have significantly improved. In select cases, he said, patients are even guided to try cross-legged sitting post-surgery — a movement once widely believed to be permanently off-limits after a knee replacement.

"Occasionally — not always — we tell patients they can try cross-leg sitting again," he explained. "With knee replacement surgery, many are able to do it without pain."

Health experts note that misinformation around surgical risk remains one of the biggest barriers to timely treatment, often leading patients to endure prolonged pain and reduced mobility rather than seek medical intervention.

FAQ

Q: Is knee replacement surgery safe? A: Yes. Modern knee replacement, especially robotic-assisted procedures, is considered a safe and effective treatment for restoring mobility and reducing joint pain.

Q: Can patients sit cross-legged after knee replacement? A: In some cases, yes. Dr Ashish Singhal notes this is possible occasionally, depending on the patient and procedure, though not guaranteed for everyone.

Q: What can patients do after knee replacement surgery? A: Most patients regain the ability to walk, climb stairs, drive, and resume routine daily activities without pain.

Dr Ashish Singhal practices at Paras Hospital and Mahe Clinic, Udaipur.