How Does Joint Replacement Work? A Breakdown of Preparation, Surgery & Recovery

Joint replacements are nothing new; in fact, they have been around since the 1960s, although that doesn’t make the prospect of undergoing the procedure any less daunting. Joint replacement happens when the current joint has degraded beyond repair and requires a new, artificial component to be surgically added in order for a joint to continue functioning. Hip and knee replacements are by far the most common, with 790,000 knees and 544,000 hips replaced in the US every year. 

What Causes Joint Problems?

The joints in your body play a crucial role in every movement you make. However, the area where two bones meet experiences a good amount of strain- strain that, over time, takes a toll on the body. 

As people age, joint issues become increasingly common, with conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, bursitis, and tendinitis frequently affecting older adults. Osteoarthritis is a common disease that often develops later in life. It occurs as the cartilage wears down, leading to pain and stiffness. 

Arthritis is actually an autoimmune disease that causes swelling and joint deformities, especially in the fingers and wrists. Bursitis and tendinitis, both often triggered by repetitive movement or injury, can lead to inflammation in various joints, including the hips, knees, elbows, and shoulders. 

While joint replacements are more common in elderly populations, knowing a little bit about how they work can be helpful for anyone in need of one, as well as their support networks, and those interested in the field or building their knowledge, such as students completing AGACNP post master’s certificate or who work in geriatric health.

What is Joint Replacement? 

Sometimes, the disorders we mentioned progress to a stage where they impair joint function to the point where replacement is necessary. At this stage, you can undergo a surgical procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in a damaged joint by replacing it with an artificial implant called a prosthesis.

During the surgery, the damaged portions of the joint are removed and replaced with components made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. These prosthetic parts are made from a range of cutting-edge materials to mimic the movement of a natural joint, allowing patients to regain mobility and reduce discomfort caused by conditions like arthritis, injury, or wear and tear. 

Some joint replacements are known as ‘partial replacements,’ when a part of the joint is removed and a new part is added. A good example is a partial hip replacement, where surgeons replace the ball component but not the socket. For other joints like the knee, partial replacements have been used less historically as they require an incredibly high level of precision and are, therefore, challenging for surgeons. However, the advent of robotics in medicine is changing this. 

How to Prepare for Joint Replacement 

While the prospect might seem daunting at first, there are a few recommended steps you can take to make everything go as smoothly as possible. The first thing to do is find an orthopedic surgeon you trust, as they will have a huge impact on your life for years to come, so make sure you communicate any concerns as and when they arise. If you have any doubts, it is your right to seek a second opinion, and doing so will allay any of your concerns.

Plan ahead to ensure you can take time off work, delegate responsibilities to others, and arrange for support after the operation. By taking these proactive steps, you’ll set yourself up for a successful surgery and a smoother recovery.

What Does Recovery Look Like?

There really is no one recovery period that everyone will experience; the time will vary from person to person as much as the experience, but there are a few similarities and tips from those who have gone through a joint replacement that help. 

If you are caring for someone who is in the recovery process, all you have to do is stick to the basics: make sure they are comfortable, their pain medication is effective, they are given ice packs for swelling, they are okay at night, and so on. 

If you are still recovering, one of the biggest mistakes people make is doing too much too soon. While it is entirely understandable to want to use your new joint to get back to everyday life, the importance of taking time to heal cannot be understated. Physio and rehab activities are a great way to start moving in a safe, monitored environment. 

At the end of the day, time is the best method of recovery, so take it easy, rest up, and you will be back at it sooner. 

**Please note this article is for information purposes only and should not serve as medical advice. If you or someone you care about is considering a joint replacement, contact your family doctor or relevant healthcare provider.