If you are dealing with persistent joint pain and a limited range of motion, you may be considering total joint replacement surgery. Total joint replacement surgery is a procedure that helps to relieve chronic joint pain and improve mobility when other treatments have been unsuccessful. Joint replacement surgery can be an effective way to restore your overall quality of life and get you back to doing the things you enjoy – pain-free.
Total Joint Replacement Surgery
Total joint replacement surgery (also called arthroplasty) is a procedure which involves removing certain parts of a damaged joint and replacing them with artificial pieces. Arthroplasty may be required following a serious injury or for advanced arthritis damage in a joint. Joint replacement surgery can be performed on many joints, but hip and knee replacements are the most common.
Advances in technology and a greater knowledge of human anatomy means that surgical techniques have become increasingly precise and safe. Artificial joints are designed better to function just like natural joints. Robotic-assisted hip and knee joint replacement is an option for many people, which offers surgeons greater precision, control, and dexterity during surgery.
Recovery After Joint Replacement Surgery
Post-operative recovery varies for each patient, and any type of surgery can take a toll, as there will be some degree of trauma. Typically, you will need to stay in a hospital for one to five days following total joint replacement surgery, depending on your overall health, any complications that may have arisen during or after surgery, and the specific type of procedure performed. You will be given pain medication after surgery to make you more comfortable and will be encouraged to begin using the new joint as soon as possible, although certain movements will be temporarily restricted.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a key component following joint replacement surgery and helps you adjust to the new joint and regain your strength and mobility in the area. Physical therapy often begins immediately after joint replacement surgery to help prevent joint stiffness and encourage healing. After your surgery wound heals, you will begin more strenuous and frequent physical therapy, which you should expect to do for several weeks or months. Physical therapy is critical in speeding up the healing process and strengthening the muscles surrounding the new joint to ensure you get full use of the joint without pain symptoms.
Your physical therapist will work with you to design a personalized rehabilitation program tailored to meet your specific needs and requirements. Rehabilitation is a gradual process, which includes different phases of healing and is designed to go at your pace. You will also be given a home exercise program to follow in order to aid your recovery. Physical therapy programs work to:
- Restore Motion – You will gradually progress from passive therapy to active range of motion exercises.
- Strengthen and Stabilize – This involves a variety exercises and the use of different equipment to help stabilize and strengthen the joint and improve coordination. Exercises will gradually increase in intensity over time.
- Prevent Future Injuries – An important stage of therapy concentrates on techniques to improve strength, function, and coordination, enabling you to carry out daily tasks and activities in a safe way, reducing the chance of future injuries.
The total recovery time after a total joint replacement can take several months to a year, depending on the joint being replaced, your overall health, and any complications or preexisting conditions that may hinder your healing speed. A majority of patients achieve great results with a dramatic reduction in pain and a significant improvement in mobility and function, helping them gain a better quality of life.
Shoulder, Hip, & Knee Replacement in Naples, Florida
If you would like to find out more about joint replacement surgery, contact the experts at Joint Replacement Institute. We use custom-made implants and can treat many joint conditions.
Our compassionate, highly skilled orthopedic surgeons have the experience and expertise to effectively treat your joint pain. Call us today at (239) 261-2663 to schedule an appointment, or you can request your appointment online.
