SHARES
“My left knee is hurting badly. The pain kept me awake all night, the stiffness in the morning is intolerable. Doctor says my left knee osteoarthritis has gotten worse. The x-ray doesn’t look good. Two years ago, I underwent a joint replacement surgery for my right knee. The outcome is fantastic. The pain is gone. I can walk and even travel. Life is so much better!” Lee, 57, is considering a knee replacement surgery for left knee as well.
What is joint replacement surgery?
This is a major surgery for replacing the old worn out joint with a new artificial joint. The surgery is relatively safe. To date, surgeons all around the world had successfully replaced various human joints. For example, the knee, hip, shoulder, elbow, ankle, wrist, hand, feet, and even the spine! Most patient are pain free after the surgery. In addition, they are able to carry out normal daily activities independently. Having said so, this is still a major surgery. Its benefit and risk must be considered carefully. More importantly, sit down and have a talk with your doctor to understand your condition and suitability. Surgery is generally the last resort after conservative treatment fails to relieve your symptoms.
Photo by Drgaurav Khera from Flickr
Signs That You Might Need Joint Replacement Surgery
1. Pain that does not go away despite conservative treatment
First of all, if your joint still hurts a lot despite intense treatment, it may be time for surgery. Usually, conservative treatment such as painkiller (NSAID), steroid injection and physical therapy are able to help relieve your pain. On top of that, your physical therapist is also there to help strengthen your muscles, improve your joint flexibility and range-of-movement. All these are important to support your joint function and prevent further injury. But, a damaged joint hardly heal and, if severe, needs to be replaced.
2. You are suffering from severe side effects due to your painkiller
Ibuprofen is a good painkiller (NSAID) which is commonly used for osteoarthritis. However, some people may suffer severe side effect like bleeding stomach ulcer which is potentially life-threatening. This is because long term use of high dose NSAID or other drugs like aspirin can erode the stomach protective layer. Your doctor may change your painkiller medicine or advice for surgery if pain is still uncontrolled.
3. Your daily life is severely affected
If your joints become too painful and stiff for you to carry out activities of daily life, it may be time for surgery. Basic activities of daily life includes walking, toileting, bathing, dressing and eating. In this regard, getting a joint replacement can help you regain independence and allow for self-care. Many people are happy to be able to walk again. Also, social and family events become more enjoyable.
4. You are emotionally worn out
Finally, chronic pain and limitation on daily activities can take their toll on your mental health. People with osteoarthritis are more prone for depression and anxiety. Depression will make you down and lose interest in almost anything in life. On the other hand, many people find themselves getting irritable and restless due to anxiety. Mental stress can affect your sleep, appetite, and even wear down your body. Talk to your family, friends and doctor about how you feel. They are always willing to help out.
What to expect from joint replacement surgery?
Replacing a worn-out joint with a new one can get rid of the pain and restore your joint function. Usually, you can see optimum result in 6 months. Give yourself some time and patience as you learn to adapt to your new joint. Also, make sure to follow strictly your rehabilitation exercises. Your physiotherapist is there to help you through the process. Lastly, note that an artificial joint usually last about 15 to 20 years. If you have a joint replacement surgery done at a younger age, you may need a “revision” surgery later in life.
Photo by Ronny Richert from Flickr
Conclusion
Joint replacement surgery is a great medical advancement that can almost undo the natural wear and tear process of our joints. However, this does not mean you should rush into surgery. Talk to your doctor today and find out what are the suitable treatments for your joint pain!
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References
1. Harvard Health Publishing. 6 signs that you might need to get your joint replaced [Internet]. Harvard University. 2019. [Available from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/6-signs-that-it-may-be-time-to-have-a-joint-replaced; last accessed on 2019 Aug 21]
2. Hip replacement surgery: is it time [WebMD]. WebMD LLC. 2019. [Available from: https://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/hip-replacement-right-for-you; last updated on 2019 May 29; last accessed on 2019 Aug 21]
by Chang Xian
View all articles by Chang Xian.
