A medical treatment called joint replacement surgery is intended to help people with damaged or degenerative joints move more freely and with less pain. This procedure, which is frequently done on the knees and hips, replaces the injured joint with a prosthetic implant composed of ceramic, metal, or plastic components. It is frequently advised for ailments like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and joint injuries that don’t improve with conventional therapy.

For those with joint-related problems, joint replacement attempts to improve the overall quality of life, minimize discomfort, and restore function. Physical therapy rehabilitation following surgery is essential for the best possible outcome, assisting patients in regaining joint function, strength, and flexibility.

Joint replacement surgery is a common procedure that involves replacing a damaged joint with an artificial implant, called a prosthesis. It’s often used to treat severe arthritis, but can also be used for other conditions that impair joint function.?

If you are considering joint replacement consult Dr. Rahul Gagare a renowned Joint replacement surgeon in Pune at Galaxy Multispeciality Hospital Dighi, Pune.

Understanding Joint Replacement

• Types of joint replacement – Hip, knee, shoulder, ankle, and other joints.
• Conditions treated – Arthritis, injuries, deformities, and more.
• Procedure overview – What to expect during surgery and recovery.
• Benefits and risks – Weighing the potential outcomes.

When Should Joint Replacement Be Considered?

Pain:
Constant, severe pain – Pain that significantly interferes with daily activities, sleep, and overall quality of life.

Pain not manageable with medications – Trying various pain medications, including topical options, without significant improvement.

Impaired Mobility:
Difficulty performing daily tasks – Unable to walk, climb stairs, get dressed, or engage in desired activities due to joint pain and stiffness.

Limited range of motion – Significant stiffness and difficulty bending or straightening the affected joint.

Failure of Nonsurgical Treatments:
Physical therapy – Having undergone a comprehensive physical therapy program without lasting pain relief or improved mobility.

Weight loss – If obesity is a contributing factor, attempting and failing to achieve significant weight loss.

Medications – Trying various medications, including anti-inflammatory drugs and injections, without sustained improvement.

Other Factors:
Age – While age isn’t a barrier, younger individuals may need to consider the longevity of the implant and potential future revisions.

Overall health – Being in good overall health optimizes recovery and surgical outcomes.

Activity level – Active individuals may benefit more from the improved mobility and function offered by surgery.

Psychological impact – Chronic pain and limited mobility can significantly affect mental well-being.

What Happens During Surgery?

Initially, you will receive medication from the surgical team to prevent pain (anesthesia). The medication may either put your entire body to sleep (general) or block pain only in a specific area of your body (regional). The injured joint will subsequently be replaced by a brand-new artificial joint by the surgical team.

Every surgery is unique. The extent of the joint damage and the technique used during surgery determine how long it will take. You will receive information from your doctor or a member of their team regarding what to expect in the hours following surgery, as well as instructions on how to get ready for surgery.

What Happens After Surgery?

How soon you can go back home after a joint replacement depends on a number of factors. These consist of your medical history, the kind of surgery you had, and your at-home support system. Your muscles are weak from lack of use, so you might experience some temporary pain in the new joint. Your body is also mending. Medication can help with the pain, which should go away in a few weeks or months.

Through physical therapy, you may be able to restore joint motion and strengthen the muscles surrounding your new joint.

Pain will subside, range of motion will improve, as you move your new joint and allow your muscles to become strong again.