When end-stage arthritis or severe joint pain starts limiting your activities despite having tried other treatments, joint replacement may be your best option to improve quality of life. Many patients that have undergone joint replacement find it a rewarding experience and wish they had got it done sooner! Here are 10 interesting facts about joint replacement surgery:

1. Joint replacement surgery is no longer an option reserved for the elderly. Due to the advances in implants and surgical techniques such as robotic-assisted surgery, patients in their 40s, 50s, or younger undergo joint replacement and are able to return to their active lives again.
2. Most individuals are very satisfied with the results of joint replacement and would like their other damaged joints replaced.
3. .In most cases, after undergoing total knee or hip replacement surgery, you can expect to be up on your feet the same day as the surgery.
4. Physical therapy plays an important role in ensuring a positive surgical outcome. Not moving the joint can lead to the formation of surgical adhesions within the joint and limited range of motion. Physical Therapy can be performed in an outpatient setting or with home exercises and can provide the same benefits as formal therapy.
5. Postsurgical pain can be well controlled with a combination of nerve blocks and short-term intravenous & oral medications.
6. Prehabilitation may help improve chances of success and speed up recovery. Losing weight and performing strengthening exercises will support and stabilize the new joint and improve the life of the implant.
7. For appropriate patients, total joint replacement surgery can be performed through a single 4 to 6-inch using a minimally invasive technique with minimum cutting of surrounding muscles and other soft tissues.
8. The time required to make a full recovery can vary from person to person and depends on severity of injury, type of replacement, and level of activity & expectations of the patient.
9. Joint replacement is an elective procedure. The patient must decide whether or not to have the procedure after a discussion with the surgeon about the risks and benefits.
10. The experience of your surgeon does influence outcome of joint replacement surgery. Ideally, your surgeon should have advanced fellowship training and extensive experience in performing the specific joint replacement surgery that you are about to undergo.

Dr. Frisch is a specialist orthopedic surgeon focusing on minimally invasive hip and knee joint replacement as well as regenerative treatments for enhanced healing. He believes in creating a very personalized experience with the highest level of service. For all appointments & inquiries, please contact our offices located in Rochester, River District, and Tawas City, MI.