Signs it is time for a joint replacement

The human body has around 350 joints. A joint is where two bones meet and (usually) move, and they are made up of bone, fluid and soft tissues. Joints are important because they support the movement of our bodies; however, if we have too much wear and tear or an injury to a joint, it can lead to pain and limit our physical activity or capabilities.

"When joint pain starts to interfere with daily activities, mobility or sleep, it may be time to consider joint replacement surgery," said W. Cason Shirley, MD, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance Columbia. "Joint replacement can offer lasting relief and restore quality of life. Modern joint replacement techniques are highly advanced, allowing for faster recovery and a return to the activities that patients love. Many of my patients say they wish they had done the operation sooner."

How can people heal an injured joint?

There are many treatment options for joint pain. The goal of most medical treatment plans is to start with more conservative approaches like rest, ice or heat compression, elevation therapy and over-the-counter pain medications.

If this initial treatment plan isn't helping, your physician will likely refer you to a physical therapist to improve the strength around your problem joint(s).

If your pain persists post-physical therapy, some physicians may consider injections or a referral to a pain management clinic, depending on your joint. Everyone's joints, bodies and issues are unique, and your physician will work on a customized plan.

If the joint pain continues, it may be time to chat with your physician about joint replacement surgery.

What is joint replacement surgery?

Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged joint with an artificial part called a prosthesis. This is made of either metal, plastic or ceramic and is designed to replicate the movement of a healthy joint. The most common joint replacements are performed on the knee and hip; however, joint replacement is also conducted on the shoulder and ankle.

What are the warning signs it's time to discuss a joint replacement?

You're unable to perform daily tasks due to pain

You start making workaround plans for daily tasks

Supportive devices, like braces, do not provide relief

You're experiencing pain or stiffness when resting or lying down

You're in pain despite medications or pain management treatments

There's significant inflammation, swelling or joint deformity

You do not experience improvement with physical therapy

You're experiencing a decrease range of motion

You have a bone-on-bone feeling

You're becoming dependent on pain medication

It's having a negative impact on your mental and physical health

What to expect during and after joint replacement surgery

The length of your surgery and stay in the hospital varies greatly depending on multiple factors, such as age, your joints, other health conditions and more. Fortunately, due to advancements in surgical technology and techniques, there's an increase of joint replacement surgeries that qualify as outpatient, which means patients can go home the same day.

A full recovery for your joint replacement will involve physical therapy, medications, follow-up visits with your physicians and more. The timeframe to fully recover from surgery could take anywhere from a few months to one year. Most patients can return to regular activities around six weeks after their surgery if advised by their surgeon.

Quality of life

If your pain is impacting your quality of life, it may be time to chat with your physician and inquire about joint replacement. Your physician will work with you to see if you are a candidate for this surgery.