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A Path to Improved Mobility and Quality of Life
Joint pain can significantly limit your daily activities. Orthopedic Specialists in Iowa understands this and offers complete care for patients considering total joint replacement surgery. With nearly a decade of experience, our dedicated team aims to restore your mobility and help you achieve a pain-free lifestyle.
If you’re living with chronic joint pain and have tried nonsurgical treatments without success, it might be time to consider joint replacement surgery.
What is Total Joint Replacement?
Total joint replacement, or arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to replace a damaged or worn-out joint with an artificial one (prosthetic joint). This procedure is often recommended for individuals experiencing chronic pain and limited movement due to conditions like arthritis or joint injuries. During surgery, the damaged part of the joint is removed and replaced with a prosthesis made from durable materials such as metal, plastic, or ceramic. The result is restored joint function, reduced pain, and improved mobility.
Conditions Treated with Joint Replacement
Joint replacement surgery is commonly performed to treat:
- Osteoarthritis: The most common cause of joint pain, especially in the hip, knee, and shoulder.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition that affects the joints, leading to pain and inflammation.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Caused by joint injuries, fractures, or accidents that result in long-term joint damage.
- Severe Joint Pain: That limits your ability to move or perform daily tasks.
Types of Total Joint Replacement
Joint replacement surgery can be performed on several major joints, including:
Total Hip Replacement (THR)
The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint, and over time, it can wear down from arthritis or injury. In total hip replacement surgery or hip arthroplasty, the damaged parts of the joint are replaced with a metal prosthesis and a new socket. This procedure helps reduce pain and restore your range of motion, allowing you to return to activities like walking, climbing stairs, and exercising.
Total Knee Replacement (TKR)
The knee joint is one of the largest joints in the body and is commonly affected by arthritis or injury. Total knee replacement, also called knee arthroplasty, involves replacing the worn surfaces of the femur and tibia with metal and plastic prostheses. This procedure can eliminate pain and improve mobility, helping you regain the ability to perform everyday activities like walking, bending, and climbing stairs.
Total Shoulder Replacement (TSR)
Although less common than hip or knee replacements, total shoulder replacement can significantly improve function and reduce pain for individuals with shoulder arthritis or injuries. In this procedure, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, the ball of the upper arm is replaced with a metal prosthesis, and the socket is replaced with a plastic component. This helps restore shoulder movement and reduces discomfort, allowing patients to resume daily tasks.
When is Joint Replacement Surgery Recommended?
Before recommending surgery, your orthopedic surgeon will work with you to explore non-surgical options such as physical therapy, medications, or injections. If these treatments don’t provide sufficient relief, joint replacement surgery may be the best solution to improve your quality of life.
Signs that you may be a candidate for joint replacement surgery include:
- Chronic pain that doesn’t improve with rest or medication
- Difficulty performing everyday activities, such as walking, bending, or using stairs
- Decreased range of motion and joint stiffness
- Swelling or inflammation that doesn’t improve
- Instability or a sense that the joint may "give out"
What to Expect During Surgery
Total joint replacement is performed under general anesthesia, meaning you will be asleep during the procedure and will feel no pain. The surgery typically lasts a few hours, depending on which joint is replaced. After surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery room for a few hours before being sent to your hospital room or discharged.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
After joint replacement surgery, you’ll be given a customized recovery plan. Physical therapy is a key component of recovery, helping you regain strength and mobility in your new joint. The length of recovery varies, but most patients can expect to return to normal activities within a few months.
Your surgeon will provide instructions on:
- Managing pain and swelling with ice and elevation
- Keeping the surgical site clean and following wound care instructions
- Gradually increasing movement and activity to strengthen muscles around the joint
- Working with a physical therapist to improve joint function and mobility
Long-Term Outlook
Most patients experience significant and long-lasting pain relief after joint replacement surgery, enjoying years of improved mobility. While most replacements last decades, some individuals may require revision surgery over time.
Benefits and Risks of Joint Replacement
Benefits:
- Significant reduction or elimination of pain
- Improved mobility and range of motion
- Return to normal activities with little or no discomfort
Risks:
- As with any surgery, there are risks, such as infection, blood clots, nerve injury, or complications from anesthesia
- The artificial joint may wear out over time, and some patients may require additional surgeries
Get Back to Living Life Without Joint Pain
At Orthopedic Specialists, our team of experienced orthopedic surgeons is here to guide you every step of the way—from your initial consultation to your full recovery. We are committed to providing you with the best orthopedic care possible, utilizing the latest techniques and technologies to ensure the best possible outcome.
To learn more about what to expect when you undergo total joint replacement surgery, please visit our Surgery Preparation/Recovery page.
