When Joint Pain Leads to Replacement

The reason it is important to find an effective treatment for joint pain and the conditions that cause the achy symptoms in the first place is to avoid the drastic measures of having a total joint replacement. This type of procedure removes an arthritic or damaged joint and replaces it with an artificial joint called a prosthesis. While many people may have heard of a total knee replacement, this kind of surgery may also include the hip, ankle, shoulder, foot, elbow, and even the fingers.

Patients usually opt for a total joint replacement when joint pain has become too unbearable to endure. The damage that has taken place with the cartilage surrounding the joint is also too spoiled to repair. Severe pain may become debilitating, where an individual alters their lifestyle in order to accommodate their weakened bones, muscles, and joints. Without a total joint replacement, an individual may become disabled and unable to function in the manner they desire.

A doctor will perform a physical examination, run a few laboratory tests, and order a couple of x-rays in order to reveal the extent of joint damage. This will also help the patient come to a conclusion whether they wish to undergo the procedure to enhance their quality of life.

When a patient decides that a total joint replacement surgery fits their personal needs, they will make an appointment to have a surgeon replace the damaged parts of the joint. For instance, in the case of a damaged knee, the ruined ends of the bones and cartilage are replaced with metal and plastic parts that are molded to restore knee movement and function. With a total hip replacement, the damaged ball (upper end of the femur) is switched with a metal ball attached to a metal stem that fits into the femur. A plastic socket placed into the pelvis completes the surgery.

Overall, the materials used in a total joint replacement operation are constructed to encourage natural joint movement. With the use of metal and plastic, the materials are built to last and resistant to normal wear and tear. After the surgery, doctors often promote the immediate use of replaced joints. Some individuals (such as total hip and knee replacement recipients) are able to stand and walk with the use of a cane, crutches, or a walker on the day after their procedure. During the recovery process, it is important to exercise and treat the temporary pain that comes with weak muscles and the healing process.