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JOINT REPLACEMENT: GettingYou Back to an Active Lifestyle
Severe joint pain can keep you from enjoying life to the fullest. But thanks to advances in less invasive replacement surgery, you can get back to an active lifestyle with less downtime than you might think.
“Minimally invasive techniques have revolutionized the joint replacement procedure,” explained Dr. Sawyer Croley, an orthopedic surgeon who focuses on hip and knee replacement at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Clear Lake. “Ths means less trauma to surrounding tissues, less pain and scarring, faster recovery time, and a quicker return to daily activities.”
Joints are the parts of the body where two bones meet, enabling movement and stability. If a joint is damaged, it can cause signifiant pain and limited mobility that can negatively impact quality of life. Hip and knee replacements are the most commonly performed joint replacements, but replacement surgery can be performed on other joints as well, such as the ankle, wrist, shoulder and elbow.
Common reasons joint pain develops include:
1. Arthritis
2. Overweight or obesity
3. Past injury
Without treatment, joint pain gets worse over time. Having surgery can seem daunting, but the results can be life-changing. Advancements in technology and techniques have made joint replacement procedures much safer and more effective, with quicker recovery times.
Why Surgery Could Be Your Next Step
“There are many misconceptions surrounding joint replacement, but the reality is that it’s a safe and effective treatment option for those suffering from chronic joint pain,” Croley said.
Essentially, joint replacement is more like joint resurfacing. When a joint becomes worn out, the nerve endings in the bones become exposed, causing pain. The surgeon places a new surface on the end of the bones, like a cap that is designed to cover up and protect the nerve endings.
However, it is important to have realistic expectations about living with the updated joint. Croley explained, “Your knee will never be like it was 20 years ago, but if you want a functional knee with less pain, you,re going to be pleased with the results.”
Th re are several reasons to consider joint replacement surgery, including:
1. L ong-lasting results. In many cases, people can enjoy improved joint function and relief for upwards of 20 years. Over 80% of patients who have undergone surgery are very happy with their knee replacement and would do it again.
2. Minimal recovery time. Advances in surgical techniques have led to the development of less invasive joint surgery options that offer quicker recovery times and reduced risk of complications compared to traditional surgery.
3. Increased activity. New technology and approaches make joint replacement outcomes feel more natural. Most patients who have joint replacement surgery can get back to low-impact activities, such as swimming or walking, within four to six weeks.
Houston Methodist developed a Rapid Recovery Program to streamline healing after joint replacement surgery. Patients who are relatively healthy and have good family support are eligible to go home on the same day as the surgery.
For inpatient procedures, many patients are up and walking within hours after surgery. Whether you recover in the hospital or at home, your care team is dedicated to your success.
“With time and rehabilitation, patients can expect to see significant improvements in their range of motion and ability to perform daily activities,” Croley explained. “Recovery is a gradual process, and it may take time to see the full benefits of the surgery.”
The sooner you talk to an orthopedic specialist about your persistent joint pain, the quicker you’ll be back to enjoying life to the fullest. •
