Did you know over a million joint replacement surgeries are performed in the US every year? It is one of the most successful and cost-effective interventions in Medicine. As people continue to live longer and more active lives, the number of joint replacements performed every year is expected to grow rapidly reaching 4 million by the year 2030. It is generally recommended as the last option when joint pain and immobility cannot be effectively managed by any other treatments.
The important benefits of joint replacement include:
- Pain Relief: Joint replacement surgery has been reported by patients to provide significant pain relief. After undergoing the procedure, most patients do not have to rely on pain medications and injections to obtain temporary pain relief.
- Improved Joint Function: Joint replacement is generally recommended in cases of end-stage osteoarthritis also known as bone-on-bone arthritis characterized by complete breakdown of cartilage and severe movement restrictions. With the placement of the new joint, patients experience better joint function and improvement in quality of life.
Minimally invasive techniques are used to perform total joint replacement ensuring you heal quickly and return to work or activities you enjoy with minimal delay. Some candidates may even be allowed to return home on the same day as the joint replacement surgery to recover in the comfort of their own home.
How fast you recover after joint replacement will depend on your activity level prior to the surgery, severity of impairment, overall health, your ability to maintain a positive mental attitude and actively participate in your rehabilitation.
There are minimal risks involved with the procedure, but most complications can be treated successfully. With the continuous improvements in joint implant material and design, new joint replacements can be expected last 15 years or longer. In fact, most patients are so happy with the joint replacement surgery that they wish they had undergone the procedure sooner rather than waiting until their pain was unbearable!
If your joint pain is negatively impacting your lifestyle, consult the orthopedic specialists at the North Central Surgical Center for an in-depth evaluation and personalized treatment recommendation.
At North Central Surgical Center, our mission is to treat each and every one of our patients, and their families, as if they were our own family member. Each patient, each family, each and every time.