Joint Replacement Surgery: Five Things to Know

Joint pain can be debilitating. Whether it’s caused by arthritis or injury, it can mean stiffness, swelling, and pain that limits your everyday life. If tasks like climbing stairs, getting out of a chair, or going for a walk have started to feel like a challenge, you may have considered total joint replacement surgery. If so, it’s normal to have questions about the procedure and your recovery. Here are five important things to know before joint replacement surgery.  

Is surgery the only option for severe joint pain?  

Many patients are surprised to learn that surgery is not a physician’s first choice for treatment. In fact, the experts at Rockhill Orthopaedic Specialists explore every possible option before recommending surgery. Physical therapy, medication, injections, and lifestyle changes may help relieve pain and improve your mobility. Joint replacement is typically recommended when these methods fail to deliver the long-term relief you deserve. 

“Joint replacement isn’t something we rush into,” says Wesley Frevert, MD. “Our goal is to help you stay active and pain-free for as long as possible.  When pain and mobility issues start interfering with daily life despite other treatments, joint replacement can make a real difference.”  

How long do new joints last? 

We often hear from patients who delay joint replacement surgery because they fear their new joints won’t last long enough. But today’s joint replacements are made from durable materials, like ceramic, cobalt chrome, and special plastics. Between these new materials and advancements in surgical techniques, most patients enjoy more than 25 years with their new joints before they may need another replacement surgery.

Am I “too young” for joint replacement?

Arthritis isn’t the only cause for joint replacement surgery. Genetic conditions, sports injuries, and disease are all reasons a patient may consider surgery—and these affect patients of all ages. In fact, patients between 30–50 are the fastest growing age group for joint replacement surgery. These range from weekend warriors to avid golfers to pickleball players. In most cases, they are all able to return to the activities they love and save themselves years of pain and frustration.  

“We evaluate patients based on their condition—not their birth year,” says Dr. Frevert. “Joint problems affect all kinds of people, and we see many of them delay treatment because they think they’re too young to be dealing with them. In many of these cases, surgery can save them from years of pain and frustration.”

How do I prepare for joint replacement surgery? 

Your recovery begins the moment you elect to have surgery. The more prepared and informed you are before your surgery, the smoother your recovery will be. Your surgeon may refer you to a pre-surgery class, such as those offered at Saint Luke’s, where you’ll learn what to expect before, during, and after your joint replacement. They may also recommend specific exercises to strengthen the muscles around your joint. Taking advantage of these resources will help you feel more confident going into surgery and better equipped to make a speedy recovery.  

When can I walk after joint replacement surgery?

You may think you’ll be on bedrest for several days after your surgery—but that’s far from the truth. Your surgeon will outline a physical therapy program to get you up and moving immediately after your surgery. Many Rockhill joint replacement patients choose to do their rehab at Saint Luke’s Hospital Outpatient Rehabilitation for its convenient location and specialized services. You may need to use a walker or crutches at first, but most people return to regular activities within a few weeks. Staying committed to your physical therapy plan is one of the most important parts of your recovery and will reduce your risk of injury or need for a follow-up surgery.  

Thinking about joint replacement?  

If joint pain is holding you back from living the life you love, don’t wait to learn your options. The experts at Rockhill Orthopaedic Specialists are here to get you back on your feet. With 18 board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons, we’ll build a personalized care plan that works for you.