Jun 12, 2022

Joint Replacement Could Change Your Life

Pain Management.

There are many reasons why people may need to consider joint replacement surgery. Often, as people age, they decide to get joint replacement surgery. If you are considering joint replacement, you may have some questions about whether it is the right option for you. We’ve compiled some of the questions you may have, along with answers to help you make your decision.

When is joint replacement surgery needed?

If you are experiencing chronic pain that prevents you from taking part in everyday life activities, surgery may be a good option for you. This pain could be due to injury, or arthritis. Typically people needing joint replacement surgery are over the age of 50.

Your doctor may suggest trying medication before surgery. If your pain and joint function do not improve with medication, you may be referred to an orthopedic specialist to discuss the possibility of surgery. An orthopedic surgeon will examine your affected joints and may take x-rays. While orthopedic surgeons can also recommend non-surgical options such as physical therapy, they are the ones to help you determine if surgery is needed.

How do you prepare for surgery?

Your doctor will work with you to make sure you are ready for surgery. They may recommend that you lose weight, ensure that your blood pressure is in a healthy range, and asses any other health issues that could complicate surgery.

Your doctor will also make sure you are well-informed about the surgery itself and what to expect post-op.

What is recovery like for joint replacement surgery?

A joint replacement surgery usually takes an average of two hours. You will likely need to stay in the hospital for one to three days after your surgery. Your doctor will prescribe medication to help with any pain you experience during recovery. Typically, people are able to return to normal activities after six weeks.

If you think joint replacement surgery might be a good option for you, start the conversation with your doctor to get a plan in place and get you back to living pain-free.

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