Joint replacement is a surgical procedure in which the damaged joint is replaced with a combination of artificial materials such as metal, plastic and ceramic. It is commonly performed on weight-bearing joints, like the hip or knee, which undergo wear and tear over time.
Joint replacement surgery can dramatically improve your quality of life if you are experiencing persistent joint pain and limited mobility. These procedures, most performed on the hips and knees, can also be done on shoulders, fingers, ankles and elbows. It is typically recommended when non-surgical treatments like medication, physical therapy, exercise, weight loss and assistive devices such as canes or braces have not provided sufficient relief. While your doctor might explore other surgical options that preserve more of the natural joint, a full replacement is often the best solution for those struggling with severe pain and difficulty performing everyday tasks like walking, putting on shoes and socks, getting into and out of a vehicle, or simply climbing stairs.
Many joint replacement surgeries today are performed using minimally invasive techniques and robotic assistance, which offer several advantages over traditional methods, including:
-Faster rehabilitation and healing time
-Less bleeding
-Smaller scars
-Reduced post-operative pain
-Stronger muscles due to less tissue damage
-Shorter post-op hospital stays
Joint replacement is a life-changing procedure for many patients. Two of the key benefits include increased mobility and improved quality of life. However, it is important to have realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve. While joint replacement can significantly improve your function and comfort, it may not restore your joint to the condition it was in before it became damaged.
Joint replacement surgery is an effective treatment for relieving pain and restoring mobility when other interventions have failed. “Joint replacement surgery isn’t just about replacing a joint; it’s about restoring freedom, reducing pain and helping you get back to the life you love,” says orthopedic surgeon Filippo Romanelli, DO, MBA.
With advancements in treatment and minimally invasive techniques, the procedures are safer, more precise and easier to recover from. Talk to your physician to see if a joint replacement is right for you.
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