When Is Joint Replacement Surgery Necessary?

Living with joint pain can be incredibly challenging. We understand that the decision to undergo surgery is a big one, filled with questions and uncertainty. At Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions about your care and regain a better quality of life. Remember, you’re not alone. We’re here to listen, provide guidance, and work together to find the best solution for your unique situation. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the non-surgical approaches that can often provide significant relief and explore when surgical intervention might be necessary. 

The Basics of Joint Replacement Surgery

Joint replacement surgery involves replacing a damaged joint with an artificial one. The goal is to relieve pain, restore function, and improve quality of life. It’s important to note that while wrist, elbow, and shoulder joints can suffer from various ailments, not every condition requires surgery.

When to Consider Non-Surgical Options

Before recommending joint replacement surgery, various non-surgical approaches can be considered. Physical therapy is often a first-line treatment. A physical therapist can design a program to help reduce joint pain, improve mobility, and strengthen the muscles around the joint. Medications and lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, also play a crucial role in managing symptoms. In many cases, these treatments can significantly relieve pain and delay or even prevent the need for surgery.

Signs That Joint Replacement Might Be Necessary

When is it time to start considering joint replacement surgery? If any of the following factors apply to your situation, your doctor may recommend this important procedure:

1. Severe Pain and Impaired Function: If joint pain persists despite other treatments and significantly impairs your ability to perform daily activities, joint replacement surgery might be the next step.
2. Degenerative Joint Disease: Conditions like severe arthritis can lead to the deterioration of the joint, where the protective cartilage wears down, leading to bone grinding on bone.
3. Injury and Joint Instability: Severe injuries that cause joint instability or deformity might require surgery to restore function.
4. Quality of Life: When the quality of life is severely affected and less invasive methods have not provided relief, surgery could offer a more definitive solution.

Total or Partial Joint Replacements

When we recommend joint replacement surgery, the decision between total and partial joint replacement depends heavily on the extent and location of the joint damage. Total joint replacement surgery involves replacing the entire joint with an artificial joint. This option is typically advised when severe damage encompasses the entire joint or when two or more bones are significantly affected. 

On the other hand, partial joint replacement focuses only on replacing the damaged portion of the joint, preserving as much of the natural anatomy as possible. This approach can be sufficient when only a segment of the joint is affected, making it a less invasive option that can still effectively restore function and provide a new joint surface for smoother movement. Both options aim to alleviate pain and restore mobility, tailored to each patient’s specific condition and needs.

Evaluating Your Case

Determining the necessity of joint replacement involves a thorough evaluation by our surgical team, which includes reviewing your medical history, a physical examination, and possibly imaging tests. Our team will work with you to assess the extent of damage to your joint and discuss whether joint replacement or another treatment is suitable for you.

Joint Replacement Surgery: The Process

If joint replacement surgery is deemed necessary, here’s what to expect:

• Pre-Surgery: Preparation includes discussing the surgical procedure with your surgical team, understanding the risks, such as blood clots, and planning for post-surgery care.
• During Surgery: The affected joint parts are replaced with prosthesis parts made to mimic the movement of a healthy joint.
• Post-Surgery: Recovery typically involves physical therapy to help regain strength and mobility. The full benefit of the surgery is often realized several months after the procedure.

Contact Us for a Consultation on Joint Surgery in Philadelphia, PA, and Nearby Areas

Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center specializes in the comprehensive care of all conditions and injuries related to the hand, wrist, arm, elbow, and shoulder. Every individual’s situation is unique, which is why we encourage anyone experiencing joint issues to schedule a consultation with us.

If you’re facing severe pain, have tried other treatments without relief, or have been advised to consider joint replacement, please contact us to review your case and discuss potential treatment options. Our team will provide personalized care to help you toward a pain-free life.