When Joint Replacement is Needed

Early detection of joint issues can lead to better outcomes in joint replacement surgery. Symptoms that may indicate the need for a joint replacement include:

• Persistent Pain: Chronic joint pain that doesn’t improve with medications or physical therapy.
• Stiffness and Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the joint fully, affecting everyday activities such as walking or bending.
• Swelling and Tenderness: Ongoing inflammation and tenderness around the joint that doesn’t subside with rest.
• Pain While Resting: Joint pain even while resting, particularly at night.
• Joint Deformity: Visible changes in the joint’s appearance or alignment may cause difficulty in movement.

If you experience any of these symptoms, consulting the best joint replacement surgeon can help determine if joint replacement surgery is appropriate for you.

Common Reasons for Joint Damage

Joint issues develop for various reasons, and understanding these causes can help patients make informed decisions about total joint replacement:

• Osteoarthritis: The most common cause, it involves the breakdown of cartilage in the joints, leading to pain and stiffness.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder that inflames the joint lining, causing damage to joint tissue over time.
• Traumatic Injuries: Injuries from accidents or falls can damage joint structures, making it necessary for joint replacement.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: As we age, joints undergo natural wear and tear, eventually leading to significant pain and dysfunction.
• Genetics: A family history of joint issues can increase one’s likelihood of developing conditions requiring joint replacement surgery.

At Eva Hospital, our joint replacement specialists carefully evaluate the underlying causes to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

Potential Complications of Joint Replacement Surgery

While joint replacement surgery is a highly effective procedure, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks, which include:

• Infection: Although rare, infections can occur at the surgical site or within the new joint.
• Blood Clots: Blood clots may develop post-surgery, particularly in the leg or lungs, which requires careful monitoring.
• Implant Issues: Over time, implants can wear out, shift, or become loose, potentially requiring revision surgery.
• Joint Stiffness: Some patients may experience reduced flexibility after surgery, although physical therapy often helps to alleviate this.
• Nerve Damage: Although uncommon, nerve damage can occur, leading to temporary or, in rare cases, permanent loss of sensation or function.

At Eva Hospital, our joint replacement hospital uses the latest techniques and maintains strict safety protocols to minimize these risks, ensuring the best outcomes for every patient.

Reducing the Risk of Joint Issues

While joint issues may not always be preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of needing joint replacement:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Extra weight puts additional stress on your joints, especially weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.
• Exercise Regularly: Engaging in low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, and walking can strengthen the muscles around your joints and support them.
• Focus on Flexibility and Strength: Stretching and strength exercises, particularly for the muscles around vulnerable joints, can provide additional stability.
• Avoid High-Impact Activities: Limiting high-impact activities can protect the joints from excessive strain and injury.
• Regular Check-Ups: Seeing an orthopedic specialist regularly allows for early detection of joint issues, providing treatment options before surgery becomes necessary.