Total Joint Replacement
Total joint replacement is when the surface of a permanently deformed joint is surgically replaced with man-made materials that restore quality of life by allowing the joint to move freely without the pain of conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or severe trauma.
During the procedure, the surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone from the joint and replaces them with prosthetic components made from metal, plastic, or ceramic. These components mimic the movement of a natural joint, allowing patients to regain mobility and reduce pain. The goal of total joint replacement is to enhance the quality of life by relieving pain, improving joint function, and restoring a patient’s ability to perform daily activities.
Candidates for total joint replacement often experience significant joint pain, stiffness, and limited mobility that do not respond to conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or injections. The surgery is typically recommended when other treatments have been exhausted and the patient’s pain or dysfunction significantly impacts their quality of life.
Post-surgical rehabilitation and physical therapy are essential for recovery, helping patients regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the joint. Most patients can expect significant improvement in joint function and a substantial reduction in pain, allowing them to return to a more active lifestyle.
With advancements in surgical techniques and prosthetic materials, joint replacements today are more durable and effective, often lasting 15 to 20 years or more.