Total joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty is commonly performed. This procedure is performed to repair severe injuries or to replace joints containing widespread forms of Arthritis and other bone diseases. Joints that endure continual weight-bearing stress, particularly the hips and knees lose cartilage over time. Shoulder joints can develop particular forms of Arthritis that may require total joint replacement surgery to relieve unbearable pain. Hand and joints also endure daily stress that can damage cartilage and are particularly susceptible to bone diseases.

Cartilage in the joints naturally protects bones from rubbing together. When cartilage begins to deteriorate, bones begin to rub against each other while in motion, resulting in severe pain and swelling. This can limit motion in the joints, cause the bones to grind and create popping sensations.Total joint replacement surgery can alleviate these symptoms and drastically improve the patient’s daily quality of life.

An Orthopedic surgeon can determine if Arthroplasty is necessary. Patients should consider potential risks under the guidance of a qualified physician before making a decision about Joint ReplacementSurgery. The performance of a joint replacement depends on several factors and will vary with each individual.

Hip replacement

The hip joint is made up of two parts, the pelvic socket and the ball at the top of the femur bone also known as the head of the femur. Total Hip Replacement procedures involve replacing the pelvic socket of the hip as well as the ball of the joint and a portion of the femoral stem. The surgery is completed after the position and movement of the new joint hip is correct. Each patient responds differently to surgical procedures, therefore recovery times will vary. It can take an average of one to six months for patients to fully return to their daily activities.

Total Knee Replacement

Knee replacement surgery is most commonly performed to alleviate the debilitating pain and deformation caused by various forms of arthritis. Severe injuries to the ligaments, cartilage or the meniscus can also require total knee replacement surgery. The damaged areas of the knee joint are replaced by artificial components that optimize range of motion and renew proper use of the joint. The average recovery is approximately 6 weeks. However recovery time varies with each individual.

Total Shoulder Replacement

Shoulder replacement surgery is the third most common joint replacement procedure. When damage within the shoulder reaches advanced stages it can result in pain, weakness and limited use.Total shoulder replacement surgery may be the most viable option for patients who have reached these stages. Recovery time is more extensive for this procedure. Most patients have 50% motion in the new joint after 3 months. At approximately 6 months the average patient will regain most of their strength and motion as well as freedom from pain. Shoulder strength should be fully restored, one year after surgery.

Total Hand Joint Replacement Surgery

Total hand joint replacement surgery is a common procedure, typically performed on specific joints rather than on the entire hand. Similar to other total joint replacement surgeries, this surgery is used to repair severe injuries and to treat Arthritic joint impairments. Due to the small size of the hand joints,joint fusion rather than replacement may be a more effective option.