How Joint Replacement Can Transform Your Daily Activities?

With the increase in old age, people experience joint injuries which are due to conditions like arthritis, fractures, and joint abnormalities. These conditions might cause hindrances in the quality of life of the patient. Thus, doctors suggest and perform joint replacement surgery. Metals, ceramics, or robust plastics can be used to make the artificial joint (prosthesis). The artificial joint behaves similarly to the native joint and has a comparable appearance. Any joint in the body can be replaced by a surgeon; however, hip replacement and knee replacement are the two most popular joint replacement procedures.

What are the Types of Joint Replacement?

Joint replacement can ease discomfort and restore movement. The surgeon may decide to completely replace the diseased joint or only remove a portion of it in some cases (partial joint replacement), depending on the severity of the conditions. Here are some of the most commonly performed joint replacement procedures:

• Total knee replacement
• Wrist replacement
• Hip replacement
• Shoulder replacement
• Ankle replacement
• Elbow replacement
• Finger joint replacement

How Joint Replacement Surgery is Done?

The procedure usually takes place in a hospital or outpatient facility. Depending on the type of surgery the patient needs, the surgeon will use different techniques. The patient will be given anaesthesia just before the surgery to ensure their comfort during the procedure. This also helps prevent any complications during the surgery. Then, the surgeon makes a small cut and removes the injured joint. Afterward, a synthetic joint is used to replace the injured joint. Once the replacement is in place, the incisions are closed with surgical glue, staples, or stitches. The healthcare provider then covers the sutured area with bandages to prevent infection. The doctor might also use a splint to keep the surgical area immobilised.

Some joint replacement surgeries do not require extensive procedures and can be completed by surgeons using minimally invasive methods. These methods involve fewer incisions and specialised tools. Recovery times for minimally invasive operations can differ from those for more extensive ones.

How Joint Replacement Can Transform Your Daily Activities?

Joint replacement offers several advantages and can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life. Here are some of the benefits of undergoing joint replacement surgery:

Relieve Discomfort and Chronic Pain

Patients choose to undergo joint replacement to alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by joint injuries or conditions. Conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, joint inflammation, or joint degeneration can cause immense pain that might disrupt daily activities. Whether it’s knee replacement or spine replacement, the intention is to repair the joint and facilitate easy mobility, thereby reducing pain and improving overall quality of life.

Improve Quality of Life

Living with chronic pain can significantly influence a patient’s life negatively. Joint replacement surgery notably enhances the quality of life by reducing pain, aiding in proper sleep, and fostering a positive sense of well-being.

Restore Mobility

Joint pain and stiffness can restrict the range of motion, leading to decreased mobility. Joint replacement plays a pivotal role in restoring mobility and the freedom to move around. Patients can walk, climb stairs, work out, and engage in various activities without being overly concerned about movement limitations.

Long Term Durability and Functioning 

With advancements in technology and the field of surgery, the functionality and durability of joint replacement surgery have improved. Technicians have developed artificial joints that mimic the original joints, guaranteeing long-term effectiveness. Thus, the primary goal of joint replacement is to provide patients with independent and enduring joints that help them lead better lives.

Faster Recovery

Joint replacement surgery leads to swift recovery, aided by rehabilitation programs. It plays a crucial role in accelerating the recovery process. After the surgery, the doctor will refer the patient to a physiotherapist who will oversee the recovery. They will create a customised physical exercise plan to help the patient regain proper mobility and recover at the earliest.

How to Take Care of Joint Replacement Surgery?

Although it might seem impossible to return to normal life after joint replacement, the process is much easier than anticipated. However, the first few weeks are crucial to ensuring the new joints function properly. There are some lifestyle changes that patients need to follow to ensure optimal recovery:

Stay Hydrated

After surgery, it is important to drink plenty of water. This is because a shortage of water content in the body might lead to inflammation in the newly replaced joints. Even if the patient does not feel anything at first, with time, they will feel the complications. Thus, it is recommended to drink water throughout the day.

Keep Your Feet Elevated

All patients are advised to keep their feet up on a stool or chair. Also, it is important to keep the legs elevated while sleeping – this will prevent the feet from moving around, which might cause other damages such as sprains, heel pain, etc.

Keep Your Core Muscle Strong

The core muscles help support the back while standing and climbing stairs. They also prevent discomfort while lying down and reduce back pain. It is recommended to do core exercises to improve health and well-being.

Omni Hospital is one of the best joint replacement hospitals in Hyderabad. In addition to years of experience, our doctors are trained, board-certified, and have knowledge from abroad. Furthermore, we make use of the latest technologies to perform surgeries and diagnostic tests. To determine if joint replacement surgery is suitable for you, call or visit us today to book an appointment!