Many joints in the body, such as the shoulder joint and knee joint, are commonly replaced as patients age. This may not always be the case, depending on the health of the patient and the severity of their conditions. Arthritis and injuries are typical issues that can develop and worsen with time, resulting in the need for joint replacement. However, joint replacement surgery is not for everyone. At Sports, Occupational, and Knee Surgery in Texas, we strongly encourage patients to think about the many factors that are involved in making the decision to undergo invasive surgery for joint replacement.
What should I consider when thinking about joint replacement surgeries?
There are several factors that our team may recommend patients consider when thinking about undergoing joint replacement surgeries with our orthopedic surgeons. This includes:
- Severity of pain. Patients with mild joint pain may find that they can manage their discomfort with the use of over-the-counter pain relief medications as needed, such as Advil, Tylenol, or Ibuprofen. However, some patients do not want to spend every day using pharmaceuticals to control their pain and may want a more permanent solution, even if it is more invasive.
- Impact to quality of life. Individuals who were once extremely active each day may find that conditions such as arthritis in the knee may keep them from doing the things they love. Many patients will stop their favorite activities altogether due to the discomfort of the joints.
- Conservative options. Before considering surgery, many medical professionals will offer patients more conservative treatment options to see if they can find a solution without surgical intervention. This may include the use of heat or cold packs, stretches and exercises, or physical therapy to improve range of motion while reducing pain.
Learn more about joint replacement
If you reside in the communities of Schertz or San Antonio, TX and want to speak to a professional about the pros and cons of joint replacement surgery, connect with our team by calling (210) 696-9000 to request an appointment. Our team is here to help new and established patients with their orthopedic and sports needs.
