“[For] patients who are obese and have a high BMI, it’s a high load on their joints,” Schwarzkopf told Fox News Digital. “That’s more load constantly on the knees, so there’s more wear and tear.”

He added that the intensity of high school and college sports in the U.S. also contributes to more knee injuries compared to many other countries. Even when treated, some injuries—especially those affecting cartilage—cannot fully heal, leading to lasting damage.

“As cartilage disappears, osteoarthritis may develop,” Schwarzkopf noted. “That can cause pain and disability, sometimes requiring knee replacement as the ultimate treatment.”

Preventing Knee Pain and Surgery

For younger adults, prevention is key. Schwarzkopf emphasized maintaining a healthy weight as the most important step, since it can significantly reduce knee pain.

He also advised staying active, strengthening surrounding muscles like the hamstrings and quadriceps, and avoiding long hours of sitting without breaks. People in desk jobs should aim for at least an hour of daily activity and take frequent breaks to stand, stretch, and walk.

Proper footwear is another important factor, especially for those who spend long hours on their feet.

For those already experiencing discomfort, seeking professional orthopedic care is crucial. Treatments such as physical therapy and minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery can help restore function and reduce pain long before knee replacement becomes necessary.

“We don’t want to do knee replacements on people in their late 20s and 30s,” Schwarzkopf stressed.