According to the National Joint Registry, approximately 160,000 total hip and knee replacements for painful joints are performed each year. What happens during these procedures, and why do so many of us need them?
Why do we need it?
In a healthy hip or knee the bones are connected to each other with bands of tissue called ligaments. The joints are also surrounded by cartilage tissue, which helps support the joints and prevents bones from rubbing against each other, and lubricated with fluid to reduce friction.
A damaged hip or knee joint can cause pain and problems with activities such as walking, driving and working. A hip or knee replacement is a procedure where all or part of the damaged joint is replaced with an artificial version, in order to improve quality of life, mobility and relieve pain.
How does it work?
For hips
By making an incision into the skin, the surgeon removes the damaged joint and replaces it with an artificial one made out of a metal or ceramic alloy. The operation usually takes around 60-90 minutes to complete.
For knees
The worn ends of the bones in your knee joint are removed and replaced with metal and plastic parts. A total knee replacement, where both sides of your joint are replaced, takes one to three hours. If only one side of your knee is damaged you may have a partial knee replacement, which uses a smaller incision and requires less bone removal.
See also: Arthritis and Painful Joints
Recovery
After a hip replacement, you’ll typically need a walking aid like crutches for the first four to six weeks. Certain exercise programs can also help you regain and improve your mobility. Most people can go about day to day life within two to three months, but it could take up to a year for complete recovery.
For a knee replacement, if you’ve had minimally invasive surgery you may be able to walk on the same day of your operation. At the very least, you will generally be helped to stand from within 12-24 hours. During your stay in hospital, a physiotherapist will teach you exercises to help strengthen your knee. Most people are able to walk independently with sticks after about a week, and you should be able to walk unaided six weeks after surgery. It may take up to three months for the pain and swelling to disappear, and it could take up to two years for your new knee to fully recover.
A hip or knee replacement doesn’t have to be your only option however. Today there are many practical alternative solutions and remedies available.
If you are suffering from hip or knee pain there are a number of possible solutions that you can talk to your doctor about. These solutions range from simple non-surgical procedures to increased exercise, and their effectiveness will depend on your age, health, and level of discomfort.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy is used to not only help reduce pain, but also to strengthen muscles and joints. Because damaged joints often get worse without regular activity, physical therapy is an important first step in treating hip and knee complaints.
See also: Say Goodbye to Back Pain
Painkillers & Injections
There is a variety of over-the-counter and prescription painkillers that may be able to reduce hip or knee pain. These can include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroid injections, or pain-relieving creams, gels and rubs. Of course, there is the possibility of side effects so it’s best to consult a professional beforehand.
Exercise & Weight loss
Increased exercise can help strengthen muscles and relieve pain in your joints. Weight loss is also extremely important, as studies have shown that being just 10 pounds overweight will put an added 60 pounds of pressure on your knees.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative remedy to treat body aches and pains. With the use of thin needles, acupuncture aims to change the flow of energy within the body and is used to treat a variety of issues.
It’s important to remember that the success of any of these, or other remedies, will be determined by your individual situation. What might work for some may not be so effective for others, so its best to consult your local doctor to get a proper assessment of the best options available.
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