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.

“Joint replacement may be necessary when the cartilage that cushions the bones in a joint wears away, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility,” explained Dr. Stephen Incavo, an orthopedic surgeon who focuses on hip and knee replacement at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine.

Joints are the parts of the body where two bones meet, enabling movement and stability. If a joint is damaged, it can cause significant 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

“Many patients worry that surgery is too painful to endure,” Incavo said. “We work to minimize postoperative pain that is associated with surgery so patients can get back to the activities they enjoy quickly.”

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.

There 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 and even longer. In our experience, over 95% of patients who have undergone hip or knee replacement surgery are very happy with their 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 lowimpact activities, such as swimming or walking within four to six weeks. Most patients have no activity restrictions when fully recovered.

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. With telemedicine connectivity, patients can attend follow-up visits with their care team from the comfort of home.

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 the proper patient education, skilled surgical technique, and comprehensive rehabilitation, joint replacement can help alleviate your pain and restore function, allowing you to return to a normal lifestyle,” Incavo said.

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. •