3 things you didn’t know about hip and knee replacements

If you have recurring pain in one of your joints, such as your hip or knee, it may be time to consider replacement surgery. Replacements are standard procedures for aging adults, yet they still can be worrisome if you’ve never had this type of invasive surgery done before. 

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 400,000 people in the US have total or partial hip joint replacement, and another 600,000 people get new knees every year in the US.

These surgeries have the potential to give recipients a new lease on life. Still, before you pursue scheduling an appointment with your physician, you should read up on what to expect before, during, and after your surgery. 

Here are a few things to note about hip and knee replacements before you schedule your first consultation with a doctor: 

They’re more common than you think and outcomes are typically positive

As mentioned earlier, nearly one million people every year have some joint replacement surgery done. One of the reasons these surgeries are so common? People are living much longer, and they are much more active later in life. 

Outcomes to these types of operations are also better than ever because of improvements in the technology that creates more durable prostheses. Typically, implants last 20 years or even longer. 

Ample solutions to manage pain and blood loss from the surgery are now available

Along with technological advancements, there are also improvements in how pain, anesthesia, and blood loss impact you during the procedure.  

Patients who undergo this type of joint replacement can expect their doctors to keep blood loss to a minimum and better manage pain. Nerve blocks and spinal anesthetic can also numb certain areas and avoid risks associated with general anesthesia. 

Your x-rays and general well-being can indicate whether or not it’s time for replacement surgery

Your doctor will typically take an x-ray, as well as ask about how well you’re coping with any pain or discomfort. Depending on your answers, you may or may not be a candidate for replacement surgery. Patients who have trouble going about their day-to-day activities are more likely to need replacement surgery than those who seem to be managing just fine, regardless of how an x-ray might look. 

You and your doctor should have an open and honest conversation about your daily routine and if the pain causes any disruptions or has become unbearable. 

Is it time for a knee or hip replacement? 

If you have underlying medical conditions or advanced age, recovery time is going to be much different than if you’re still healthy and active. Not only should you speak to a physician about joint replacement surgery, but you should also involve your closest family. They can help you prepare for before and after the procedure. 

The first few days and weeks after getting surgery can be challenging. Your body will need time to adjust to a new prosthetic, and you may require physical therapy so you can get back to a regular routine. 

Many people find that they need the assistance of a skilled nursing facility post-surgery. If you feel like this is you or a loved one, contact us today, and we’ll be glad to tell you more about our facilities. 

Learn more about assisted living and skilled nursing care with USA Healthcare, and Woodland Haus Assisted Living, located in Cullman, Alabama, offers planned nursing care based on each of their residents’ individual needs and abilities, with the goal of achieving an optimal quality of life. Contact us today for more information or to set up an appointment.