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Is Total Joint Replacement Right for You
Knee and hip pain due to injury or osteoarthritis can become a daily ordeal – but is total joint replacement surgery right for you? Six Lehigh Valley Orthopedic Institute surgeons share what to consider and expect.
How do I know if I need joint replacement surgery?
Am I too young or old for joint replacement surgery?
Once diagnostic tests confirm osteoarthritis, nonsurgical options such as weight loss, physical therapy, pain medication and joint injections may help. “Joint replacement is the last option to consider after first trying more conservative measures,” says orthopedic surgeon Eric Lebby, MD. Does joint pain diminish quality of life? Regularly cause sleep loss? Impair normal function or activities, including work and recreation? If so, surgery may be called for.
Many people get total joint replacement surgery in their 60s or older after a lifetime of joint wear and tear. “But age isn’t the most important consideration,” says orthopedic surgeon Wayne Luchetti, MD. “A younger person can be a candidate if joint damage is significant enough.” In older people, overall health and ability to recover count more than age.
We perform more total joint replacements in the communities we serve. 30
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