Joint replacement

During the joint replacement, a surgeon removes the damaged surfaces of the joint and replaces them with plastic or metal implants. For example, after a new hip or knee is put in, many people can walk more easily. Some may be able to ride a bike or play golf. But there are no guarantees. Joint replacements carry the same dangers as other major surgeries. The surgeon may prescribe antibiotics and blood thinners to try to prevent some complications. The other major risk is that the new joint may not work as well as you hoped. It might feel weak or stiff, particularly the knee. Patients who don't rehabilitate promptly will not regain the maximum range of motion. To get the best results from the procedure, the rehab must be scheduled immediately, and well combined with rest, medicines, or medical spa recovery. It's less common, but it's possible that the implant can become loose or get dislocated. Also, keep in mind that the replacement joint can wear out after about 20 years. That means the patient may need another surgery down the road, revision of total joint replacement.

After hip or knee replacement, the patient will often stand or begin walking the day of surgery. At first, he will walk with a walker or crutches. He may have some temporary pain in the new joint because your muscles are weak from not being used. The pain is covered by medication and physical therapy. Physical therapy usually begins the day after surgery to help strengthen the muscles around the new joint and help you regain motion in the joint. If you have your shoulder joint replaced, you can usually begin exercising the same day of your surgery! A physical therapist will help you with gentle, range-of-motion exercises. Before you leave the hospital, your therapist will show you how to use a pulley device to help bend and extend your arm.