When should I have a knee replacement done?

Joint replacement is a surgical procedure during which a damaged or arthritic joint is replaced with an orthopedic prosthesis. It may be recommended as a treatment option if you suffer from severe joint pain.

For 80–90% of people who have an artificial joint replacement, the new one typically lasts 20 years. The more demanding your lifestyle is, the faster it will wear out.

You should be able to stop using your walking frame or crutches and get back to your normal leisure activities within six weeks after the surgery. However, it can take up to three months for the pain to settle down, and up to a year for a complete recovery.

Arthroplasty, also known as total knee replacement, is a surgical procedure in which the knee is replaced with an artificial joint. It is a major surgery that requires hospitalization. It is generally recommended for patients who suffer from severe arthritis or a serious knee injury.

If you suffer from severe knee pain that prevents you from performing daily activities, knee replacement surgery may be a suitable option. Although it is generally considered to be a very safe procedure, there are some risks associated with knee replacement surgery. The most serious complications include infection and stiffness in the knee.

Total joint replacement surgery is successful most of the time. Still, there are some complications that can occur such as infections, the formation of blood clots, loosening of the joint, dislocation, wear, and injury to the nerves and blood vessels.

The postoperative pain is temporary and resolves within a few days. Recovery after a total joint replacement varies and is different for each individual.

After a total joint replacement, you will expect to return to your normal life, without the pain. This takes time, and being active through this healing process is of utmost importance for a successful outcome.

After undergoing a total joint replacement surgery, physical therapy is needed to accelerate rehabilitation of the joint. Physical therapy may be continued for up to 3 months postoperatively.

After hip surgery, your doctor will give you precise indications regarding your aftercare and all the precautions you should take once you are discharged.

Before you are discharged, your doctor will tell you all you need to know about your aftercare and recovery, including the types of exercises you should perform in order to recover faster.

Your doctor will tell you what precautions are appropriate for your case before you are discharged.

The risks associated with this procedure are generally the same risks that are also present in traditional hip replacement surgeries.

Elbow joint replacement is possible and your doctor may recommend it based on your condition, established after your medical examination.

Most risks involved in this procedure are associated with the anesthesia, such as allergic reactions and breathing problems. There are also bleeding and blood clots risk, as with any other surgery.

If you’re planning to have elbow replacement surgery, you’ll want to spend some time preparing. Your doctor will provide you with all the details you need to know on how to be prepared for your surgery.

The risks of having potential complications vary from person to person because each person's health status is different. Complications also depend on what type of shoulder replacement was performed.

A rough and variable estimate is that a shoulder replacement should last between 15 to 20 years, but we often see the replacement last longer in some patients.

To determine if you need shoulder replacement surgery you need to see a qualified orthopedic surgeon. However, in the meantime, use the information below to grade your condition.