During Arthritis Awareness Month, it's important to emphasize the impact of joint replacement surgery on arthritis. Advancements in medical technology and surgical techniques have made joint replacement surgeries increasingly successful and less invasive. This progress offers hope that relief from arthritis pain is not merely a dream but an achievable reality.
Understanding Knee and Hip Arthritis
Hip and knee arthritis, prevalent conditions affecting millions worldwide, bring debilitating pain and reduced mobility to those afflicted. Osteoarthritis commonly targets these weight-bearing joints, deteriorating cartilage and causing inflammation. Similarly, rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease, may also affect these areas, leading to progressive joint damage. Symptoms include stiffness, swelling, and discomfort, which often worsen with age and activity.
The Role of Joint Replacement Surgery
Joint replacement surgery effectively alleviates arthritis pain by addressing the root cause of the discomfort – damaged joint surfaces. The procedure involves removing the damaged or deteriorated parts of the joint and replacing them with artificial implants, achieving pain relief through:
- Eliminating the source of friction and inflammation
- Restoring the smooth surfaces of the joint
- Correcting bone deformities
- Realigning the joint surfaces for improved function
Efficacy and Benefits
About 790,000 total knee replacements and 544,000 hip replacements are done every year in the U.S.1 These numbers continue to grow as the population ages and attest to the effectiveness of joint replacement surgery in relieving arthritis pain. Patients often experience significant pain reduction, improved joint function, and enhanced quality of life following surgery. Moreover, advancements in surgical techniques and implant materials have led to shorter recovery times and increased longevity of prosthetic joints, offering a lifelong solution for many arthritis patients.
While joint replacement surgery offers promising outcomes, it's essential to carefully weigh the risks and benefits. Factors such as age, overall health, and severity of arthritis play a crucial role in determining candidacy for surgery. A thorough consultation with healthcare professionals is imperative to address individual concerns and expectations.
David N. Buchalter, MD is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in minimally invasive hip and knee replacement surgery at South Palm Orthopedics. Dr. Buchalter uses the latest cutting-edge surgical and nonsurgical techniques for orthopedic patients across South Florida.
1. https://rheumatology.org/patients/joint-replacement-surgery
