Joint replacement therapy is a surgery that involves replacing a damaged joint with an artificial one. It is usually done to relieve pain and improve mobility in people who have arthritis or other conditions that damage the joints. For example, arthritis is a common condition that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. It can make it difficult to do everyday activities from cooking, and dressing, to even walking.
There are several types of joint replacement surgery, including total hip replacement, total knee replacement, and partial knee replacement. Joint replacement surgery can be done on any joint in the body, but it is most commonly done on the hip or knee. In recent years, shoulder and elbow replacements have become more common. The procedure is also sometimes used to treat joint damage caused by injury or infection.
Joint replacement surgery is a major operation that requires a hospital stay of several days. It is usually performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep during the surgery. During the procedure, the damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the joint surface. This may be done using small surgical instruments or a laser. Once the damaged tissue is removed, the new joint surface is created using either artificial implants or natural tissue grafts. The new joint surface is then secured in place using special fixation devices.
After the surgery, you will need to stay in the hospital for a few days so that your doctor can monitor your recovery. You will likely need to use a walker or crutches for a few weeks after the surgery. In addition, after surgery, patients will typically undergo a course of physical therapy to help them regain strength and range of motion in the affected joint. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few months.
As with any surgery, there are risks associated with joint replacement therapy. These include infection, bleeding, blood clots, and nerve damage. However, serious complications from JRT are rare. Most patients experience a good outcome following the procedure. In fact, most people who had the surgery experience a significant improvement in their pain and mobility.
There are also certain individuals who should not undergo joint replacement therapy, such as those with active infections, cancer, or severe cardiovascular disease. In addition, people who are obese or have osteoporosis may not be good candidates for this type of surgery. Your doctor will be able to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for joint replacement therapy.
If you are considering joint replacement therapy, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with your doctor. This will help you make an informed decision about whether JRT is right for you.
Therapy that replaces failing parts of the joints with new, man-made ones can help seniors remain mobile and independent. If you or a loved one is considering joint replacement therapy, make sure to discuss it with your physician to learn more about your options and how it can help improve your quality of life.
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