When Should I Have Surgery?

When Should I Have Surgery? JOINT PAIN

by Matthew Clayton, M.D.

As an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in total joint replacement, I am asked often to tell patients when they should undergo surgery. I think this subject is something with which many patients tend to struggle. Indeed, deciding to undergo a major surgery should be a well informed and thought out decision.

Each person that presents to an orthopedic surgeon is coming because they are in pain and looking for relief. Often times this relief comes in the form of conservative treatments. For my patients, many of whom suffer from arthritis of the knees or hips, these conservative treatments may consist of oral anti-inflammatory medications, injections, or physical therapy. I always encourage patients to maximize their utilization of these conservative measures. This approach may extend the time before needing a major surgery for months or even years.

Unfortunately, these conservative treatments may lose their effectiveness with time. As the disease of arthritis progresses, the cartilage within a joint is worn away until bone begins rubbing against bone. This results in severe joint pain and stiffness, which may worsen to a point that daily activities become difficult. Eventually, patients often find that their painful arthritic joints dictate to them what they are able to do. I often hear that my patients say that they will not shop in stores that do not have parking available by the door, or will not fly because they can’t move easily through the airport. I have also noticed that these limitations do not only affect the patient suffering from arthritis, but they can also rob their families of many opportunities to enjoy spending time together.

If you find that you are identifying with these limitations, I would suggest to you that it is time for treatment. This treatment should begin with a full evaluation by a physician who can accurately identify the cause of your pain. If indeed arthritis is the cause of your pain and limitations, the conservative measures noted above should be attempted. If these treatments have not provided adequate relief, then this is the time to consider surgery. Joint replacement surgery has two major goals: to relieve pain and restore function. Total joint replacement is a procedure that can give a patient back their mobility and therefore has one of the highest rates of patient satisfaction in all of medicine. So, if you find your painful joints are ruling your life, now is the time to discuss treatment, armed with the knowledge that if surgery is required, you can reclaim your mobility and get back to living the life you want to live.

Four Convenient Locations to Serve You

Huntsville 256.881.5151

Madison 256.464.8200

Athens 256.230.9607

Decatur 256.306.0800

www.sportsmedalabama.com