Surgical replacement of the hip or knee (arthroplasty) is a common procedure used when the involved joint has become so painful or degenerated that it is no longer functional. The procedure involves surgical removal of the arthritic areas and replacing these areas with a combination of metal and plastic. Most components are made out of some type of cobalt, chrome or titanium alloy, and the plastic is a highly-dense polyethylene. In hip replacements, ceramic bearing surfaces are used in the young, highly active patients. Patients make the decision to have their joint replaced based on the amount of pain they are having and/or the decrease in function they are experiencing. Joint replacement surgery should decrease your pain and improve your quality of life.
When will I Be Back to Normal After Surgery?
This is highly dependent on the patient, but most patients are able to do things they had trouble doing before surgery around the 8 week mark, even though your hip or knee will still be warm and swollen as it is not completely healed until about 6 months after surgery. Most patients are able to drive a car about 3-6 weeks after surgery. You will use a walker or crutches after surgery until you are safe with a cane. This usually takes 3 weeks. Most patients are off their cane by the 6 week mark. Of course this is highly dependent on each individual patient. Don't worry if you are faster or slower than these estimated milestones. The most important prognostic factors for success after hip or knee replacement are patient motivation and attitude. If you want to get better and work hard at it, you will do well.
Traveling more than 2 hours from home is OK anytime after 5 weeks. The risk of blood clots is too high if you travel too soon after surgery. Hip precautions are to be followed strictly for the first 6 weeks after hip replacement. You will learn these precautions in the hospital before you go home. Activity: In most cases, you should avoid running or jumping after hip or knee replacement surgery as this could increase wear and cause the prosthesis to loosen. Most all other activities are permitted and include walking, golfing, bowling, dancing and low impact work-outs.We encourage you to be active.
It is common for patients to experience soft tissue discomfort and swelling following hip or knee replacement. In some patients this may last 6 or longer. This gradually diminishes with time and often doesn't restrict your activities. Use common sense and modify your activities as necessary so you remain reasonably comfortably while the healing process continues.Most patients will improve for 2 years after surgery.
Having a joint replacement is a major decision and the patient who is well-informed will likely have the most successful outcome. Please ask questions if you are unsure of anything.
