When a joint replacement could be the right choice for you
More than 450,000 hip replacements and a total of more than 790,000 knee replacements are performed in the United States every year. Many patients choose this surgery to provide relief from the pain and suffering they experience due to the aging process. Determining whether you need a joint replacement is a big decision. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can determine if this is the right option for you.
Determine the available options
Many patients who undergo joint replacement surgery find that this procedure provides pain relief. It also helps improve their mobility while improving their quality of life.
Knowing whether you can benefit from this surgery is crucial. In many cases, experiencing any of the following symptoms means that a joint replacement may be beneficial for you.
- You experience frequent or intense pain in the joint
- You have problems getting up, sitting or walking
- You experience joint swelling or stiffness
- You have osteoarthritis
Any of these symptoms can be extremely disabling and affect your ability to perform various tasks. If you suffer from any of these symptoms, you may benefit from joint replacement.
When is joint replacement suitable?
When deciding whether joint replacement is appropriate, you will likely consider the severity of your condition. If you experience stiffness and soreness that cause you constant pain and limit your ability to perform various tasks, such as climbing stairs or walking, you may be a good candidate for this type of surgery.
In addition to the amount of pain you experience, your doctor will consider whether there are other lifestyle adjustments, injections, medications, or even physical therapy that may be an effective alternative. Patients who do not experience relief from these treatments may conclude that joint replacement is a suitable alternative.
Contact a joint replacement specialist today
If you would like to speak with a specialist to determine if joint replacement can help you, contact the team at Bone & Joint Specialists by calling 219-795-3360. You can make an appointment at their office in Highland, Hobart or Valaspario, IN, to discuss your options.
