Joint Replacements

What are Joint Replacements?

A joint replacement (also known as arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure where a damaged joint is replaced with an artificial joint. This type of surgery can aid in relieving long term pain and joint stiffness that did not respond to other methods of treatment.

• Reasons for Joint Replacements
  • Arthritis: There are many types of arthritis that can lead to joint damage and pain including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory arthritis conditions. Joint replacements are usually a feasible option.
  • Joint Damage: Normal wear and tear and old injuries can often cause cartilage damage.
  • Pain and Functional Limitations: Conservative treatments are always the first method of treatment, but if these fail to improve pain levels, a joint replacement may be warranted.
  • Bone Tumors and Deformities

• Types of Joint Replacements
  

  The knee and hip are the most common joint replacements you will see. The shoulder is becoming a more common joint replacement procedure. Other joint replacement procedures include the wrist, elbow, ankle, thumb, and toe. The elbow, knee, and shoulder are more challenging secondary to the complexities at these joints and generally have a longer recovery time. The materials used in joint replacements include metal, polyethylene, and ceramics.

• Joint Replacements and Physical Therapy
  

  Physical therapy will be crucial following these types of surgeries to restore proper function and strength. Most patients will have some temporary pain post surgery which can be resolved with physical therapy treatments and medications. The majority of patients will be able to return to full activity levels with little to no pain. While most patients begin to feel back to “normal” about 3-4 months following surgery, full recovery can take up to one year.

• Risks of Surgery
  

  While these types of surgery's have a low risk of complications, there are medical issues that can occur including:

  • Blood clots
  • Infections at the joint
  • Nerve damage
  • Excessive Scar Tissue
  • Continued pain post-surgery and physical therapy
  • Implant failure
  • Allergic Reaction to metal in the implant