Recovering from Joint Replacement Surgery

Have you experienced pain and stiffness that was so extreme that you had trouble with your mobility? Your joints being injured or not working properly could cause those symptoms, and more. Joints can be damaged by arthritis, degenerative conditions, or injuries. Arthritis or simply years of use may cause a lot of wear and tear on your joints. Thus, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. Bones are alive, and they need blood to be healthy, grow, and repair themselves. Diseases and damage inside a joint can limit blood flow, causing multiple problems, and if not treated properly, surgery may be required.

Joint replacement surgery has progressed leaps and bounds in the last couple of decades and is regarded as the most successful surgery in the field Orthopedics. There are millions of people around the world who suffer from crippling joint disorders and pain. This form of treatment has come as a savior for such patients, as the surgical and technological advancements have constantly evolved, it has made it possible to restore painless movement to the affected joint so that the individual can return to a normal life after surgery. With a successful surgery and a proper recovery process, you can get the movement and pain-free lifestyle that you deserve.

What is joint replacement surgery?

In 2011, almost 1 million total joint replacements were performed in the United States. Hip and knee replacements are the most commonly performed joint replacements, but replacement surgery can be performed on other joints, as well, including the ankle, wrist, shoulder, and elbow.

Total joint replacement is a surgical procedure in which parts of an arthritic or damaged joint are removed and replaced with a metal, plastic or ceramic device called a prosthesis. The prosthesis is designed to replicate the movement of a normal, healthy joint. When surgery is the best possible option for treating the problem, the process doesn’t stop there.

After joint replacement surgery, the recovery can be difficult and tiring. It doesn’t just involve laying around and healing, the muscles, tendons and ligaments all need to be conditioned back to their best health.

Tips on how to recover from joint replacement surgery:

1. Exercise is an integral part of recovery, and you can receive a physical therapy regimen catered to your particular recovery process.

2. Walking will keep your joints moving, and reduce stiffness.

3. Follow your doctor’s instructions. Recovery can be difficult, and at times painful, but following a tried and true plan is very important.

4. Don’t get discouraged. Perseverance will put you in the best possible post-op outcome, so don’t give up!

To find out more information about joint replacement surgery and the recovery process involved, call Dr. Bill Hefley at OrthoSurgeons to request an appointment.