Orthopaedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon
Dr. Vipul Kumar Gupta
MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics)
Knee and hip replacement, arthritis and fracture care. OPD: Monday to Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm.
Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement
Knee, hip, sports injury and fracture care in Lucknow
Knee pain that stops you walking, a sports injury, a fracture or a stiff shoulder? Our orthopaedic surgeons at Charak Hospital, Hardoi Road, Dubagga, find the cause with examination and imaging, and treat it with exercises, medicines, keyhole surgery or joint replacement.
NABH-accredited hospital
300-bed multispeciality
MS (Ortho) surgeons
24×7 trauma & fracture care
Talk to our bone & joint team
Share your details — our coordinator will call you back to schedule a visit.
24×7 hospital & emergency0522-666-4444
Our approach
Bone, joint and muscle care that gets you moving
Most joint and back pain improves without surgery. When surgery is needed, the aim is to relieve pain and get you walking, working and playing again as soon as it is safe. Our surgeons, physiotherapists and anaesthetists plan each step with you.
- Non-surgical treatment first whenever it is likely to work
- Joint replacement, arthroscopy and fracture surgery on the same campus
- Your X-ray or MRI explained, with all options and a written estimate
- Physiotherapy from the day after surgery
- 24×7 emergency care for fractures and injuries
Joint replacement
Knee and hip replacement for advanced arthritis.
Arthroscopy & sports injury
Keyhole surgery for ACL, meniscus and shoulder problems.
Trauma & fractures
Plates, nails and casts for broken bones, 24×7.
Spine & bone health
Back pain, osteoporosis and fragility fractures.
300Bed multispeciality hospital
NABHAccredited for quality and patient safety
24×7Emergency & critical care
27+Specialities under one roof
Know the signs
When to see an orthopaedic surgeon
See a doctor if pain or stiffness lasts more than 2–3 weeks, or stops you from doing everyday tasks.
Knee pain on walking
Pain on climbing stairs, getting up from the floor or walking distances.
Hip or groin pain
Pain in the groin or thigh, a limp or difficulty putting on shoes.
A twisting injury
A knee that gave way, swelled quickly or now feels unstable.
Shoulder pain or stiffness
Pain at night, or difficulty lifting the arm or reaching behind.
After a fall or accident
Swelling, deformity or inability to bear weight.
Back pain
Back pain lasting weeks, or pain spreading down the leg.
Swollen, hot joint
A red, hot, swollen joint, especially with fever.
Foot and ankle pain
Heel pain, ankle sprains that keep recurring, or bunions.
Go to emergency straight away for a suspected fracture with deformity, a wound over a broken bone, a joint that is hot and swollen with fever, or numbness and coldness below an injury. Call 0522-666-4444.
Conditions A–Z
Find information about a bone or joint condition
Tap a condition to read the common signs, how it is diagnosed and how it is treated.
Knee osteoarthritis
Wear and tear of the knee joint
Common signs
Pain on walking and climbing stairs, stiffness in the morning, swelling, and bowing of the legs.
How it is diagnosed
Examination and standing X-rays of the knees.
How it is treated
Weight control, exercises, physiotherapy and medicines; injections for some; knee replacement when arthritis is advanced.
About knee replacementACL tear
A torn ligament inside the knee
Common signs
A pop at the time of injury, quick swelling, and the knee giving way on turning.
How it is diagnosed
Examination and MRI of the knee.
How it is treated
Physiotherapy for some; arthroscopic ACL reconstruction for active people or an unstable knee.
About ACL injuryMeniscus tear
A tear of the cartilage cushion in the knee
Common signs
Pain on the side of the knee, catching or locking, and swelling.
How it is diagnosed
Examination and MRI.
How it is treated
Rest and physiotherapy for many tears; arthroscopic repair or trimming for locking or persistent symptoms.
About arthroscopyHip arthritis and avascular necrosis
Damage to the hip joint
Common signs
Groin pain, a limp, stiffness and difficulty sitting cross-legged.
How it is diagnosed
X-ray and MRI of the hips.
How it is treated
Medicines and physiotherapy in early stages; hip replacement when the joint is badly damaged.
About hip replacementHip fracture
A break in the upper thigh bone, common in older adults
Common signs
Pain in the hip after a fall and inability to stand or walk.
How it is diagnosed
X-ray of the hip.
How it is treated
Surgery, usually within a day or two, to fix or replace the hip, then early walking with support.
Care for older adultsFractures
Broken bones after falls or accidents
Common signs
Pain, swelling, bruising, deformity and inability to use the limb.
How it is diagnosed
X-rays, and CT for complex fractures.
How it is treated
A plaster cast for many fractures; surgery with plates, screws or nails for unstable fractures.
About fracture treatmentFrozen shoulder
Painful stiffness of the shoulder
Common signs
Gradual pain and stiffness, worse at night; common in people with diabetes.
How it is diagnosed
Examination, with X-ray or ultrasound to rule out other causes.
How it is treated
Physiotherapy, pain relief and injections; most improve over months.
See treatment optionsRotator cuff and shoulder injuries
Tendon tears and dislocation
Common signs
Pain lifting the arm, weakness, clicking, or a shoulder that slips out of joint.
How it is diagnosed
Examination, ultrasound or MRI.
How it is treated
Physiotherapy for many; arthroscopic repair for large tears or repeated dislocation.
About sports injuryAnkle sprain and ligament injury
Twisted ankle that keeps giving way
Common signs
Swelling and pain on the outer ankle, and repeated sprains.
How it is diagnosed
Examination and X-ray; MRI for persistent problems.
How it is treated
Rest, support and physiotherapy; surgery for chronic instability.
Sports injury guideBack pain and slipped disc
Pain in the lower back, sometimes down the leg
Common signs
Back pain, stiffness, and pain or tingling spreading into the leg.
How it is diagnosed
Examination; MRI only if pain persists or there are warning signs.
How it is treated
Activity, medicines and physiotherapy for most; surgery when nerves are compressed.
About spine surgeryOsteoporosis and fragility fractures
Weak bones that break after minor falls
Common signs
Often none until a fracture of the wrist, hip or spine; loss of height or a bent back.
How it is diagnosed
DEXA bone density scan and blood tests.
How it is treated
Fracture care, calcium and vitamin D, bone-strengthening medicines and fall prevention.
Bone health (endocrinology)Rheumatoid and inflammatory arthritis
Joint swelling caused by the immune system
Common signs
Painful, swollen small joints of the hands and feet, and morning stiffness lasting over an hour.
How it is diagnosed
Blood tests (RA factor, anti-CCP, ESR) and X-rays.
How it is treated
Medicines that control the disease, physiotherapy, and surgery for badly damaged joints.
Internal medicineBone and joint infection
Infection in a bone or joint
Common signs
A hot, red, swollen joint or bone with fever; can follow surgery or an injury.
How it is diagnosed
Blood tests, joint fluid test and imaging.
How it is treated
Antibiotics and, often, surgery to wash out the joint or remove infected tissue.
See warning signsKnee problems in children and teenagers
Growth-related pain and kneecap problems
Common signs
Pain below the kneecap with sports, or a kneecap that slips out.
How it is diagnosed
Examination and X-ray; MRI when needed.
How it is treated
Activity changes and physiotherapy; surgery for repeated kneecap dislocation.
Paediatrics at CharakNo match found. Please call us on 0522-666-4444 — we will guide you.
Diagnosis
How we find the cause — before we treat
Many bone and joint problems can be diagnosed with an examination and X-ray. MRI is used when it will change the treatment.
History & examination
How the pain started, what makes it worse, and a check of movement, strength and stability.
X-ray
Shows fractures, arthritis and alignment; standing X-rays are used for knees.
MRI or CT
MRI for ligaments, cartilage and discs; CT for complex fractures.
Blood tests
For infection, inflammatory arthritis, vitamin D and fitness for surgery.
Plan & estimate
Exercises, medicines or surgery explained, with a written estimate.
How knee arthritis progresses
Doctors grade knee osteoarthritis on X-ray. Tap a grade to see what it usually means.
Treatment
The main treatments we offer
Choose a topic to see what treatment involves and how to stay safe.
Treatment without surgery
Most joint and back pain improves with exercises, weight control, pain relief and physiotherapy. Braces, supports and injections help some patients.
PhysiotherapyStrengthening exercisesPain reliefJoint injectionsBraces & supportsWhat to expect
- A home exercise plan
- Review after a few weeks
- Advice on footwear and activity
Good habits
- Do your exercises every day
- Keep a healthy weight
- Avoid long-term painkillers without advice
Total knee replacement
The worn surfaces of the knee are replaced with metal and plastic parts. It relieves pain and corrects bowing in advanced arthritis.
Total knee replacementBoth knees in one sitting for suitable patientsRevision knee surgeryWhat to expect
- Walking with support from the next day
- Hospital stay of a few days
- Most people walk without support in 4–6 weeks
Recovery
- Do your physiotherapy exercises daily
- Avoid squatting and sitting cross-legged as advised
- Report wound redness, fever or calf pain
Total hip replacement
The damaged ball and socket of the hip are replaced. It is used for hip arthritis, avascular necrosis and some hip fractures.
Total hip replacementHemiarthroplasty for hip fractureRevision hip surgeryWhat to expect
- Walking with support from the next day
- Hospital stay of a few days
- Precautions on bending for the first weeks
Recovery
- Use a raised toilet seat and firm chair
- Do not cross your legs in the early weeks
- Report hip pain with fever
Keyhole joint surgery
Arthroscopy uses a camera and small instruments through tiny cuts to repair ligaments, meniscus and shoulder tendons.
ACL reconstructionMeniscus repairShoulder arthroscopyRecurrent dislocation surgeryWhat to expect
- Small scars and a short hospital stay
- A brace for some procedures
- Rehabilitation over weeks to months
Return to sport
- Follow the rehab plan step by step
- Return to sport only when cleared
- Strengthening reduces re-injury
Treatment of broken bones
Fractures are treated with a cast, or with surgery using plates, screws, nails or external fixators when the bone is displaced or unstable.
Plaster and splintsPlates and screwsIntramedullary nailsExternal fixationWhat to expect
- Pain relief and X-rays on arrival
- Surgery planned as soon as it is safe
- Physiotherapy to regain movement
Healing
- Do not bear weight until advised
- Keep the cast dry
- Report numbness, colour change or severe pain
Rehabilitation after injury or surgery
Physiotherapy restores movement, strength and balance. It starts in hospital and continues at home or in the physiotherapy department.
Post-operative rehabSports rehabBalance trainingHome exercise plansWhat to expect
- Exercises increase step by step
- Walking aids as needed
- Regular progress checks
At home
- Exercise little and often
- Use ice for swelling if advised
- Remove trip hazards at home
Services
Orthopaedic services at Charak
Surgery, procedures and guides from our orthopaedic team. Tap a card to read more.
Your visit
From consultation to walking again
Step 1
Consultation
Tell us about your pain, injury and past treatment.
Step 2
X-ray & tests
X-rays the same day; MRI or blood tests if needed.
Step 3
Diagnosis & plan
Exercises, medicines or surgery explained, with a written estimate.
Step 4
Surgery if needed
With anaesthesia and ICU support on the same campus.
Step 5
Physiotherapy
Usually starting the day after surgery.
Step 6
Follow-up
Wound check, X-rays and progress reviews.
Knee self-check
Knee arthritis is common after 50 in India
Squatting, sitting cross-legged, extra weight and weak thigh muscles add strain to the knees. Early treatment can delay or avoid surgery.
When to get your knees checked
Book a review if any of these apply:
- !Knee pain for more than a few weeks — especially on stairs or getting up.
- !Swelling, locking or giving way — after an injury or without one.
- !Bowing of the legs that is getting worse.
- !Pain that wakes you at night or stops you walking a short distance.
Knee care at Charak
- Joint replacement with Dr. Vipul Kumar Gupta.
- Arthroscopy and sports injury care with Dr. Imran Akhtar.
- Knee exercises from our knee pain exercise guide.
Daily knee care
Tap each one you do:
- I do my thigh-strengthening exercises
- I walk on level ground most days
- I avoid squatting and sitting cross-legged for long
- I use a chair or a western toilet when possible
- I am working on keeping a healthy weight
- I wear cushioned, supportive footwear
- I avoid taking painkillers every day without advice
Exercises are one of the most effective treatments for knee arthritis at every stage.
Book a knee review
Recovery
Recovery after joint replacement, arthroscopy or fracture
General guidance — always follow the specific instructions your surgeon and physiotherapist give you.
After knee replacement
Walk with the walker or stick as advised and do your bending and straightening exercises several times a day.
Keep the wound clean and dry until it is checked. Most people walk without support in 4–6 weeks.
After hip replacement
For the first weeks, avoid crossing your legs, low chairs and bending past 90 degrees, unless told otherwise.
Use a raised toilet seat and sleep on your back or with a pillow between your knees.
After arthroscopy or ACL surgery
Wear the brace if prescribed and follow the rehabilitation plan step by step.
Return to running and sport only when your surgeon and physiotherapist clear you.
Living with a cast
Keep the cast dry and raise the limb to reduce swelling.
Wiggle your fingers or toes often and report numbness, colour change or tightness.
Preventing clots and infection
Move your ankles often and take blood thinners if prescribed.
Tell your dentist and other doctors that you have a joint replacement.
Making the home safe
Remove loose rugs, add night lights and use a non-slip bathroom mat.
Keep things you use often within easy reach.
Contact us urgently if
- Increasing redness, discharge or opening of the wound
- Fever after surgery
- Pain, swelling or redness in the calf
- Sudden breathlessness or chest pain
- Numbness, coldness or colour change below a cast
- A fall onto the operated joint
Family care
Bone and joint care for every stage of life
Children & teenagers
- Fractures heal faster but need careful treatment around growth plates
- Sports injuries and kneecap problems
- Bow legs or knock knees that worsen
Active adults
- ACL, meniscus and shoulder injuries
- Back pain from posture and work
- Return-to-sport rehabilitation
Older adults
- Knee and hip arthritis
- Hip and wrist fractures after falls
- Bone density checks and fall prevention
Prevention
Keeping bones and joints healthy
These are general guides. Your doctor may advise differently based on your health.
| Who | What we recommend | How often |
|---|---|---|
| Women 65+ and men 70+ | DEXA bone density scan | As advised, usually every 1–2 years if treated |
| After a fracture from a minor fall | Bone density and fall-risk review | Soon after the fracture |
| People with knee pain | Strengthening exercise programme | Every day |
| Athletes and gym-goers | Warm-up and strength training | Every session |
| People on long-term steroids | Bone health check | Every year |
| Older adults | Vision and home safety check to prevent falls | Every year |
Strengthen your thigh and core muscles
Keep a healthy weight to protect your knees
Get enough calcium and vitamin D
Wear supportive footwear
Remove trip hazards at home
Warm up before sport and increase training gradually
Myths & facts
Clearing up common misunderstandings
Tap a card to see the fact.
Myth
“Knee replacement is only for very old people.”
Tap to flipFact
The decision depends on how much the arthritis affects your life, not only age. Your surgeon will discuss the right time with you.
Myth
“After knee replacement I will never walk normally.”
Tap to flipFact
Most people walk without support within weeks and return to daily activities with less pain.
Myth
“Exercise makes arthritis worse.”
Tap to flipFact
The right exercises strengthen the muscles around the joint and are one of the most effective treatments.
Myth
“A crack in the bone does not need treatment.”
Tap to flipFact
Even hairline fractures need proper protection to heal well. Get any suspected fracture checked.
Myth
“Oil massage can fix a torn ligament.”
Tap to flipFact
A torn ligament does not heal with massage. An unstable knee needs assessment, physiotherapy and sometimes surgery.
Myth
“Back pain always needs an MRI.”
Tap to flipFact
Most back pain improves within weeks. An MRI is needed only for persisting pain or warning signs.
Our doctors
Meet our orthopaedic team
Orthopaedic Surgeon, Arthroscopy & Sports Injury
Dr. Imran Akhtar
MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics)
ACL and meniscus surgery, shoulder arthroscopy, sports injuries and fractures. OPD: Monday to Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm.
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Dr. Vijay Kumar
MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics)
Fractures and trauma, joint pain and general orthopaedics. OPD: Monday to Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm.
Practical help
Preparing for your visit, costs & insurance
A little preparation helps us make the most of your appointment.
What to bring to your visit
Tick off as you pack:
- All X-rays, MRI films or CDs and reports
- All current medicines, especially blood thinners and diabetes medicines
- Loose, comfortable clothing so the joint can be examined
- Your walking aid, brace or splint if you use one
- For surgery: your blood test reports and a family member
- A list of the questions you want to ask
Costs & insurance
Costs depend on the tests and treatment you need. Ask our team for a written estimate before planned tests, procedures or admission.
- ✓Written estimate— ask for one before planned procedures or admission.
- ✓Health insurance & TPA— cashless treatment for admissions under tie-up insurers; outpatient visits depend on your policy.
- ✓Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) accepted for eligible admissions.
- ✓Corporate & PSU panels— ask whether your employer has a tie-up with Charak Hospital.
*Coverage depends on your policy and the treatment. Our insurance desk can check this for you.
Call 99190 40000
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
When should I have knee replacement surgery?
When knee pain from advanced arthritis stops you walking or sleeping despite exercises, weight control and medicines. Your surgeon will show you your X-rays and discuss the benefits and risks.
How long does a knee or hip replacement last?
Modern joint replacements last many years in most people. Keeping a healthy weight and staying active within your surgeon’s advice helps them last longer.
How long is the hospital stay after joint replacement?
Usually a few days. Walking with support starts the day after surgery.
Do I need surgery for an ACL tear?
Not always. Less active people may manage with physiotherapy. Surgery is advised for an unstable knee or if you want to return to sports that involve turning and jumping.
What is arthroscopy?
Keyhole surgery using a small camera and instruments through tiny cuts, used to repair ligaments, meniscus and shoulder tendons.
How long does a fracture take to heal?
Most fractures in adults take 6–12 weeks to heal, longer in older adults and smokers. Physiotherapy afterwards helps regain movement.
How much does knee replacement cost?
Costs depend on the implant, one or both knees, and the length of stay. Ask for a written estimate. Our knee replacement cost guide explains the main factors.
How do I book an appointment?
Call the bone and joint helpline on 99190 40000, the hospital on 0522-666-4444, or use the request call back form on this page. For fractures and injuries, come to the 24×7 emergency.
Glossary
Words you may hear from your orthopaedic surgeon
OsteoarthritisWear and tear of the cartilage in a joint.
CartilageThe smooth tissue covering the ends of bones in a joint.
Total knee replacement (TKR)Replacing the worn knee surfaces with an artificial joint.
Total hip replacement (THR)Replacing the hip ball and socket.
ImplantThe artificial parts used in joint replacement or fracture fixation.
ArthroscopyKeyhole surgery using a camera inside the joint.
ACLAnterior cruciate ligament — a key knee ligament.
MeniscusThe C-shaped cartilage cushion inside the knee.
Rotator cuffThe group of tendons that move and stabilise the shoulder.
Frozen shoulderPainful stiffness of the shoulder capsule.
Avascular necrosis (AVN)Bone damage from loss of blood supply, often in the hip.
FractureA break in a bone.
Plate and screwsMetal implants that hold a broken bone in place.
Intramedullary nailA metal rod placed inside a long bone to fix a fracture.
External fixatorA frame outside the limb that holds bones with pins.
OsteoporosisThin, weak bones that break easily.
DEXA scanA scan that measures bone density.
PhysiotherapyExercise-based treatment to restore movement and strength.
DVTDeep vein thrombosis — a blood clot in the leg after surgery or immobility.
Revision surgeryA repeat operation to replace a worn or loose implant.
No matching term. Please ask your doctor at your next visit.
Related pages
Related departments and guides
Joint pain, an injury or a fracture to discuss?
Speak with our bone and joint team. For injuries and fractures, come straight to the 24×7 emergency.
Medical information disclaimer: This page provides general health information for patients and families. It is not a substitute for a consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified doctor. Treatment decisions depend on each patient's individual condition. In an emergency, call 0522-666-4444 or go to the nearest emergency department.
About this page: Prepared by the Charak Hospital web team with the help of AI writing tools, using information from the Department of Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement, Charak Hospital & Research Centre · Last updated: October 2026
Explore other clinical departments
- Interventional Radiology
- Critical Care & Anaesthesia
- Dermatology & Cosmetology
- Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT)
- Endocrinology & Diabetes
- Hematology | Hemato-Oncology
- Internal Medicine
- Medical and Surgical Oncology
- Medical Gastroenterology & Hepatology
- Minimal Access/Laparoscopic & Bariatric Surgery
- Nephrology, Kidney Transplant & 24/7 Dialysis
- Obstetrics & Gynaecology
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatrics & Neonatology
- Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Radiology
- Surgical Gastroenterology & HPB Surgery
- Dietetics & Nutrition
- Institute of Cardiac Sciences
- Institute of Neurosciences
- Institute of Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine
- Institute of Urology and Kidney Transplant
- Interventional Pain Management
- Psychiatry & De-addictions
