When Is Joint Replacement Necessary?

Are you struggling with joint pain related to conditions like arthritis? Knee replacement or joint replacement (also known as knee arthroplasty) is one of the most popular joint surgeries in recent days. It is an effective and safe procedure to eliminate knee pain and increase mobility. Knowing what joint replacement is and its necessity can help you understand if joint replacement surgery is the best option for you even though you are still young.

What is joint replacement surgery?

A joint replacement is nothing but where two or more bones join or connect, including the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee. As we age, our joints experience wear and tear, known as joint degeneration. The main cause of joint degeneration is arthritis. However, it can also be damaged by trauma, medications, or autoimmune disorders. In such cases, joint replacement is an elective procedure performed to replace the damaged joint with a new, artificial one.

The most commonly replaced joints are hips and knees, but shoulders, ankles, elbows, and fingers can all be replaced. These artificial joints are made of plastic, metal, or both. There are two types of joint replacement. Sometimes the entire joint will be replaced, referred to as a total joint replacement. Other times, the surgeon may need to perform surgery to replace only the damaged parts, referred to as partial joint replacement. 

Why should you need to undergo joint replacement?

If you are struggling with persistent or debilitating pain which affects your quality of life, knee replacement surgery is the right choice for you. Here are some reasons that can indicate the necessity of joint replacement.

Pain or discomfort

Joint replacement can be performed for people who experience pain and stiffness, which makes them difficult to walk, sit, stand, climb stairs or participate in daily activities. You may be a candidate for joint replacement if your joint pain conflicts with your daily activities and adversely affects your mood.

Fractures or Trauma

A joint needs to be replaced due to increased wear and tear as a result of fractures or injuries. And it can weaken over time as a result of aging, physical strain from repeated movements or sports, and stress.

Severe destruction from various kinds of arthritis

Joint replacement surgery may be necessary for those with inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis.

Non-operative treatments are no longer efficient.

If you have knee arthritis, you will usually start with more conservative treatments to alleviate your symptoms, such as prescription medications, steroid injections, or physical therapy. But at some point, they might not be enough.

Bone damage

Severe bone deterioration can result from disorders like osteoarthritis and others. In such cases, you may benefit from a joint replacement.

Bottom line

Joints can be replaced in people of all ages. If you have joint or bone degeneration, which is the cause of chronic joint pain, it is better to discuss it with your doctor. If you no longer want to live with the pain anymore and want to get back to your daily needs or favorite activities, call us to make an appointment with us to consult with our expert orthopedic surgeon.