At the age of 16, I started exercising regularly. This decision drastically changed my life for the better. I lost an enormous amount of weight and went down three dress sizes. Unfortunately, I had to undergo orthopedic surgery 8 years ago to remove torn cartilage from my left knee. After my surgery, I was afraid to work out due to the continual swelling in my knee. Thankfully, I made an appointment with my orthopedic doctor to talk about this issue. This medical professional prescribed a comfortable and protective knee brace for me to wear while exercising. On this blog, I hope you will discover how an orthopedic doctor can help you exercise again.
Did you know that joint replacement is one of the ten most common kinds of surgeries in the United States? Each year, over one million Americans undergo joint replacement surgery. Knee replacements are the most common kinds of joint replacement surgery, followed by hip replacements. Other joints, such as the ankles and shoulders, also undergo replacement surgery.
If you want to better understand this type of procedure, here are three things to know about joint replacement.
1. Know When Joint Replacement Is Necessary
If you suffer from inflammation of the joints, there is a good chance you experience pain. One of the most common causes of joint inflammation is arthritis, which usually results from wear and tear on the joints. If you have arthritis, your orthopedist may recommend over-the-counter pain medications or steroid injections.
For some, however, these types of treatment options will not be enough to reduce pain. If you continue to experience pain or the pain is getting worse, it might be time to consider joint replacement. Other signs joint replacement is necessary include reduced mobility, swelling of the joint, or an inability to enjoy everyday activities.
2. Know What's Involved With Joint Replacement
If your orthopedist recommends joint replacement, you will want to know what's involved with the procedure. First of all, you need to know that joint replacement will most likely require a hospital stay. This is so that the doctor can monitor you closely after the procedure. You will also need to start physical therapy in the hospital.
During the procedure, the orthopedist will remove the damaged area around the joint. After that, the orthopedist will replace the joint with an artificial one. The artificial joint is called a prosthesis. Once your activity level in the hospital increases after your joint replacement, you will be discharged to go home.
3. Know What Recovery Is Like Following Joint Replacement
After you are home, you will need to do physical therapy, as well as the exercises that your orthopedist recommends. You will eventually be able to resume all of your normal everyday activities. You should avoid high-impact activities, such as jogging, jumping, or contact sports. Your orthopedist will let you know when you can resume these kinds of activities. If you have had a double joint replacement, it may take longer for you to resume your normal lifestyle.
It won't take long after joint replacement to notice a reduction in joint pain and discomfort. You will also notice that you are able to get around easier and that your overall quality of life has improved.
Share20 December 2021
