What to know when considering a hip or knee replacement
Living with arthritis can be tough. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates over 20% of U.S. adults are living with arthritis, a group of diseases that affect the joints, causing symptoms like joint pain, swelling and stiffness. The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition in which the cartilage between your joints breaks down.
Some people who experience chronic joint pain due to osteoarthritis or damaged joints find relief through lifestyle modifications, medication and/or physical therapy. But if those approaches aren’t enough, joint replacement surgery might be the solution to help you regain comfort and mobility. At Parkridge Health System, we understand that deciding to have joint replacement surgery is a big step. By recognizing the signs, you can take a step closer to finding lasting relief.
Thinking about hip or knee replacement? Here are some signs that it might be time to talk to a Parkridge Health orthopedic specialist.
What are some signs that it might be time for a joint replacement?
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, you may be a good candidate for hip or knee replacement surgery if:
- You’re unable to perform daily activities due to pain.
- You experience pain or stiffness even when lying down or at rest.
- You’re in pain despite taking medications or receiving injections.
- You find that supportive devices, like canes and walkers, do not provide relief.
- You did not experience improvement with physical therapy.
- You have significant inflammation, swelling or joint deformity.
- You find workarounds for accomplishing certain tasks.
What conditions are treated by joint replacement surgery?
People with the following conditions find relief and improved functionality through joint replacement surgery:
- Osteoarthritis (the most common reason for both knee and hip replacements)
- Post-traumatic arthritis, such as from a sports-related or accident-related injury
- Joint damage from developmental abnormalities or childhood hip disorders
- Joint damage from trauma, tumors, infection or tissue death
- Inflammatory types of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis, gout or psoriatic arthritis
Am I a candidate for joint replacement surgery?
Recommendations for joint replacement surgery are individualized, based on your personal level of pain and disability and an assessment from your doctor. Most doctors will first recommend conservative, non-surgical methods to reduce pain and improve mobility, such as:
- Getting regular physical activity
- Strengthening muscles to help support the joint
- Stretching the joints to reduce stiffness and pain
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Balancing activity and rest
- Avoiding excessive, repetitive movements
- Using hot and cold therapy
- Employing assistive devices, including mobility aids like canes and walkers, bathing and toileting aids like grab bars and shower benches and devices you wear on your body, such as orthotics and braces
- Taking over-the-counter or prescription medications for pain
- Managing pain with injections
- Doing physical or occupational therapy
If these non-surgical solutions are ineffective or fail to provide relief over time, your doctor may recommend that you undergo joint replacement surgery.
What to do if you are considering knee or hip replacement surgery?
If noninvasive treatments do not provide adequate relief, talk to your family and primary care physician about the risks and benefits of joint replacement surgery. When you are ready to explore surgical solutions, your doctor can refer you to orthopedic surgeons who will walk you through surgical options along with each of their risks and benefits.
You can also do your own research! Look for surgeons in your area with great reviews and a track record of successful outcomes. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, like how many surgeries they or the hospital perform each month or year.
How much improvement can be expected after hip or knee replacement surgery?
Most patients experience less pain and greater mobility after knee or hip replacement surgery, which can significantly improve their quality of life. However, these replacements aren’t indestructible. Just like your natural joints, the new ones are subject to wear and tear. While most people resume daily activities without difficulty, you may need to avoid high-impact exercises like running, jogging or jumping. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming or biking are usually a great fit.
Still, with an estimated 90 to 95% of people reporting total relief after hip replacement and an estimated 80 to 85% finding total relief after knee replacement, these procedures have greatly improved millions of people’s quality of life. If you’re experiencing signs, it might be time for a replacement, this procedure could be a life-changing option for you.
Why choose Parkridge Health System?
We understand that living with joint pain can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our dedicated teams in Chattanooga are here to support you every step of the way. Using the latest technology and an advanced approach to orthopedic care, we strive to help you regain comfort and improve your quality of life.
Curious about your knee or hip health? Take the first step today with our free and quick knee health and hip health risk assessments. Receive personalized recommendations, all confidentially delivered to your inbox. No further obligation — just insights to help you move forward with confidence!
Because at Parkridge Health System, your well-being is our top priority. Let’s work together toward a brighter, pain-free future.