Total Joint Replacement
What is the total joint replacement procedure?
What are the reasons total joint replacement is proposed?
For the non-surgical options the patient can be advised to get:
- Medications
- Physical therapy
- Modification in daily regime (It is suggested to reduce pain & disability)
What steps do I need to put together for the surgery?
Few weeks before the surgery, the surgeon and primary care doctor will make you aware of the procedure. Your general health will be looked upon, you need different tests – Cardiogram (to understand your heart health) and blood tests to prepare for the surgery. Apart from that, you need to do different things. Converse with the doctor about all your doubts. You need to eat the right kind of food and exercise. Taking proactive steps will help you in preparing for the surgery, and the downtime will be minimal.
What is the surgical approach?
Are there any possible complications?
The doctor will talk you through the complications and risk factors of total joint replacement which are linked to the surgery. All the complications are normal and there is treatment available for the same. Some of the possible complications included with the surgery are:
- Nerve injury
- Blood clots
- Infection
- Prosthesis issues like dislocation or loosening
What does the recovery feel like?
The time of recovery will be different for every person. Within a short time, you need to use the new joint after the treatment. Following the doctor’s instructions are imperative as it eases the recovery time.
There will be temporary pain as the muscles have been inactive and the body needs to adjust to the new joint, and tissues need to heal. In recovery time, you must follow an exercise regime. Consult the doctor for physical therapy as the exercise will help to increase joint strength and mobility.