Joint Replacement Specialist

What is a joint replacement?

A joint replacement is a surgical procedure to remove diseased or damaged tissue from a joint and replace it with new, prosthetic parts. The operation restores your joint function and relieves chronic joint pain and other symptoms. 

Replacement joint parts are usually made from metal, plastic, or ceramic. They’re built to replicate normal, healthy joint movements.

Knees and hips are the most commonly replaced joints. However, orthopedic surgeons can replace other joints, including the shoulder, wrist, ankle, and elbow. 

Why would I need a joint replacement?

The Bluewater Orthopedics team recommends joint replacements when your diseased or damaged joint can’t be restored with less invasive treatments. Some of the signs you might need a joint replacement include:

• Severe, chronic pain that limits your mobility and independence
• Pain that disrupts your sleep
• Pain that causes mental and emotional distress
• Pain that doesn’t respond to conservative therapies
• Tests that show advanced joint damage

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common reasons people need joint replacements. You may also need a joint replacement if osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a traumatic injury lead to severe joint damage. 

How should I prepare for a joint replacement?

Your orthopedic surgeon provides personalized instructions before your joint replacement. Generally, you should take steps to optimize your health before surgery, such as giving up smoking, improving your diet, and losing weight — if necessary. 

You should also make sure your doctor knows about any other health conditions or allergies. Give them a list of all of the medications, vitamins, and supplements you take daily.

What should I expect while recovering from a joint replacement?

Advances in medical technology have made joint replacements quicker, safer, and more efficient than ever before. Your orthopedic surgeon gives you personalized aftercare instructions and prescribed medicine to manage pain and prevent infection before releasing you.

In most cases, you start a rehabilitation program almost immediately. You work with a physical therapist to keep the muscles and connective tissue around your joint supple and healthy while you recover. Then, you progressively work to restore strength and range of motion. 

If you’re looking for expert orthopedic surgeons to perform joint replacement surgery, call Bluewater Orthopedics or make an appointment online today to learn about your treatment options.