Every year, more than 450,000 hip replacements and over 790,000 total knee replacements are performed in the United States. Many patients opt for this surgery to provide relief for the pain and suffering that they experience as a result of the aging process. Determining whether you need a joint replacement is a big decision. Thankfully, there are a few ways that can help determine if this is the right option for you.
Determining the Available Options
Many patients who undergo joint replacement surgery find that this procedure provides them with relief from pain. It also helps improve their mobility while essentially improving their quality of life.
Knowing whether you can benefit from this surgery is critical. In many cases, experiencing any of the following symptoms means that a joint replacement would be beneficial for you.
- You experience frequent or intense pain in the joint
- You have problems standing up, sitting down, or walking
- You experience joint swelling or stiffness
- You have osteoarthritis
Any of these symptoms can be extremely debilitating and impact your ability to perform various tasks. If you find yourself struggling with any of these symptoms, you may benefit from a joint replacement.
When Is a Joint Replacement Appropriate?
When deciding if a joint replacement is right, you will most likely take into consideration the severity of your condition. If you experience stiffness and aching that causes you constant pain and limits your ability to perform various tasks, such as climbing stairs or walking, you may be a good candidate for this type of surgery.
In addition to the amount of pain you experience, your doctor will consider whether there are other lifestyle modifications, injections, medications, or even physical therapy that may be an effective alternative. Patients who do not find any relief with these treatments may find that a joint replacement is an appropriate alternative.
Contact a Joint Replacement Specialist Today
To speak to a specialist to determine if a joint replacement can help you, contact the team at Bone & Joint Specialists by calling 219-795-3360. You can schedule an appointment at their office in Highland, Hobart, or Valaspario, IN, to discuss your options.
