Losing the ability to walk or run the way you’re used to is an all too common problem for some patients typically in their 50’s and 60’s. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative condition that over time can compromise how patients live their very lives. Fortunately, there are treatments for OA of the knee and hip that can improve painful symptoms from this sometimes debilitating disease.
If non operative measures fail to provide sufficient relief, Total Knee and Total Hip replacements are orthopedic procedures with very high patient satisfaction scores. Dr. Joseph Daniels has over 14 years experience with Total Joint Replacements (TJR’s) and carefully assesses each patient individually in order to find the best treatment options. At Southwest Orthopedics we like to give people back the life they love and cherish. You’re never too old to be young again, so don’t let chronic arthritis pain get you down. Come on in and make an appointment to be evaluated by one of our doctors today.
Approximately 700,000 hip & knee replacements are performed each year in the United States. Many joint replacement recipients experience reduced pain, increased mobility, & improved quality of life. If you are a candidate for joint replacement surgery, there are several important factors to consider:
Design of the implant system
Different companies design and manufacture joint replacement systems and the instruments used to implant them. Some implants are designed to address special considerations such as weak or damaged muscles and ligaments, excessively damaged bone or abnormal bone formation. Surgeons should choose an implant system that they feel will give you the most satisfactory results.
Performance after surgery
Many factors determine how well your joint replacement will perform after surgery, including your health before surgery, following your surgeon’s instructions pre and post surgery, your weight, activity level, and your participation in physical therapy including moderate exercise after surgery.
Activity and the health of your bones
When you walk and your foot hits the ground, the bones in your legs help absorb the stress of the impact. This is a natural process that helps keep your bones healthy and strong. If you stop using your legs, your bones begin to thin out and your muscles become very weak. Think of it as “use it or lose it.” Therefore, it is important to maintain an active lifestyle, especially after total joint replacement.