FIND A PHYSICIAN        

When Does a Joint Need Replacement?

Posted: June 1, 2007

A joint is where two or more bones come together, like the knee, hip and shoulder. Joint replacement surgery involves removing a damaged joint and putting in a new one. Sometimes the surgeon will not remove the whole joint, but will only replace or fix the damaged parts.

Joints can be damaged by arthritis and other diseases, injuries or other causes. Arthritis or simply years of use may cause the joint to wear away. This can cause pain, stiffness and swelling. Bones need blood to be healthy, to grow and to repair themselves; diseases and damage inside a joint can limit blood flow, causing problems.

To examine your joint, the doctor will look at it with an X-ray machine or other machines. The doctor may put a small, lighted tube (arthroscope) into your joint to look for damage. A small sample of your tissue could also be tested.

After looking at your joint, the doctor may say that you should consider exercise, walking aids like braces or canes, physical therapy, or medicines and supplements. Medicines for arthritis include drugs that reduce inflammation. However, drugs may cause side effects, including bone loss.

Joint replacement is often the answer if you have constant pain and can’t move the joint well; for example, if you have trouble with things like walking, climbing stairs and taking a bath. Research has shown that even if you are older, joint replacement can help you move around and feel better.

Joint replacement surgery is usually done by a doctor called an orthopaedic surgeon. Joint replacement is becoming more common. Hips and knees are replaced most often, other joints that can be replaced include the shoulders, fingers, ankles and elbows.

Any surgery has risks. Risks of joint surgery will depend on your health before surgery, how severe your arthritis is, and the type of surgery done. If you are considering joint replacement surgery, thoroughly discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.


Source: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

We Have Answers
Do you have medical questions or need help finding a doctor? The experts at Columbia St.Mary’s can help. Click here.