As a professor of pathology and human anatomy and as a research immunologist, John Lewis spends his working hours inside. However, on the weekends and when not in the lab, he takes advantage of southern California's great weather to go mountain biking, hiking, camping, boating or water skiing in the Redlands hills.

Degenerative joint disease, also known as osteoarthritis, developed in his right knee some years ago. It almost put an end to his recreational activities, and it put a damper on many of his favorite things in life. John continued lecturing to medical students and spent more time on reading and computer work. Because walking up stairs caused pain, he had to place limits on his walking and activity levels. What's more, John had restless, sleepless nights due to the pain, and he began taking many pain medications.

John's total knee replacement completely changed these physical limitations. John says he has had "100% improvement" in walking since receiving his new knee, and he has abandoned his medications because he no longer has pain. Most favorably, and to his delight, he has even begun mountain biking again.

Many patients like John wait for years before undergoing knee joint replacement due to fear of additional pain, outcomes and risks, or costs associated with the surgery. However, as John Lewis rightfully states, "Watchful waiting is tough on the patient--I should have done this five years ago!"

The future of research for knee osteoarthritis is bright and promising. However, additional efforts are needed as the prevalence and incidence of this disease increases, and as our population ages.

Continuing research is needed in many areas. These include continued testing of joint replacement materials such as ceramics, improved lubricants, greater understanding of cartilage repair, better operating instruments and new techniques.