5 Things You Need to Know About Joint Replacement

1. A Last Resort

When joint pain becomes so severe that a person stops using the joint as much as possible, the condition becomes even worse, as the muscles supporting the joint become weak and stiff. The goal of joint replacement is to relieve chronic pain due to loss of or damage to cartilage. Before a doctor recommends joint replacement, a number of laboratory tests and X-rays will be performed to reveal the extent of damage to the joint. If other treatment options are available, they will be tried first; however, if other treatments do not remove pain, total joint replacement may help you to live pain-free with increased mobility.

2. The Simple Explanation

Joint replacement is exactly that--a surgery to replace damaged bone and cartilage with plastic and metal prosthesis. Damaged bone and cartilage is removed from the joint, be it the hip, knee, ankle, foot, shoulder, elbow or even fingers, and is replaced with an artificial, functioning joint. In most cases, the bone or joint socket is covered with a sturdy plastic that fits closely with the metal joint itself.

3. Using Your New Joint

Most orthopedic surgeons encourage use of your new joint as soon after operation as possible. Depending on the location of your joint replacement, you may need the assistance of a walker, crutches or cane for a few days or weeks; however, most patients find recover easier than expected. Exercise will be an important part of recovery after joint-replacement surgery and may include physical therapy, particularly because inactivity of the joint has most likely led to weakness of muscles. Most patients find that they can return to their favorite pastimes, including golf, walking, dancing and bike riding.

4. No Science is Perfect

Joint replacement surgery is completely successful in 9 out of 10 patients; however, no science is 100-percent perfect. Some complications you should be aware of include infection, blood clotting, loosening or breakage of the prosthesis, dislocation of a replaced hip or nerve injury. Your specific risk factors will depend on the type of joint replacement and extent of current damage; therefore, it is important that you discuss all of your concerns with your doctor before surgery.

5. Is Joint Replacement Permanent?

Unfortunately, joint replacement is not permanent and may need to be redone every 10 years or so. However, most people find that the pros outweigh the cons, as after joint replacement they can live healthy, pain-free and active lives. Additionally, medical equipment and technology is improving each day, and the longevity of artificial joints is increasing every year.