Osteotomy: What It Is, When It's Used, and How It Helps Recovery

When your knee or hip hurts because of wear and tear, but you're not ready for a full joint replacement, osteotomy, a surgical procedure that cuts and reshapes bone to shift weight away from damaged joint areas. Also known as bone realignment surgery, it’s a smart middle ground for younger, active people who want to keep moving without swapping out their joint. It doesn’t fix arthritis — it just moves the pressure off the worst part. Think of it like shifting the load on a wobbly table by cutting and repositioning one leg.

Osteotomy is most common in the knee, where misalignment from arthritis often causes pain on one side. If the inner side of your knee is worn out, a surgeon can remove a small wedge of bone from the shinbone (tibia) to tilt your leg slightly outward, moving weight to the healthier side. For the hip, it’s less common but used in younger patients with developmental issues. The goal? Delay joint replacement by 10 to 15 years — giving you more time to stay active, avoid big surgery, and keep your natural joint.

This isn’t a quick fix. Recovery takes months. You’ll need crutches, physical therapy, and patience. But for many, it’s worth it. Studies show over 80% of patients report less pain and better function five years after the procedure. It’s not for everyone — if your arthritis is advanced or you’re older, a replacement might be better. But if you’re under 60, active, and your X-ray shows damage on just one side, osteotomy could be the smartest choice you make.

What you’ll find here are real stories and clear facts about osteotomy — from what happens during surgery, to how people manage pain afterward, to why some choose it over knee replacements. You’ll also see how it connects to other treatments like physical therapy, weight management, and even Ayurvedic approaches to joint health. No fluff. Just what you need to know if you’re considering this option — or just trying to understand what your doctor is talking about.

What Is Bone Surgery Called? Common Terms and Procedures Explained

Bone surgery is officially called orthopedic surgery. This field includes procedures like joint replacements, fracture repairs, and bone grafting. Learn the common types, recovery times, and when surgery is truly needed.

Full story