FAQs About Total Joint Replacement Surgery & Rehabilitation

Have you been suffering from arthritis for years and finally decided to get treated for pain relief other than taking pain medication? If your physician explained that undergoing surgery is the most ideal way to treat your pain but you are afraid of the procedure, knowing what to expect might provide some comfort. If you have a joint that is completely damaged, you will need to undergo total joint replacement surgery and rehabilitation. The benefit of removing a damaged joint and replacing it with a prosthesis is that your arthritis pain will either be significantly reduced, or the pain will be eliminated altogether. If you are unsure about undergoing the total joint replacement procedure, this article might help you decide.

Is Total Joint Replacement Surgery A Long Procedure?

If you decide to undergo total joint replacement surgery, do not expect the procedure to be fast. You are looking at least an hour or so in the operating room, but the specific time varies. Total replacement of one joint can take longer to operate on than another joint. For example, if a knee joint is being replaced, the procedure can take several hours to complete in some cases. The best way to determine how long your surgical procedure will last is to ask your physician.

What Is Recovery Like After Total Joint Replacement Surgery?

After undergoing the total joint replacement surgical procedure, the recovery period can vary between patients. For example, if your overall health is good, you might recover faster than a patient who has poor health. However, a common aspect of recovery for total joint replacement patients is to undergo physical therapy. The reason is to ensure that the joint that was replaced is being properly exercised to promote healing, as failing to be active can cause delays in the healing process. A physical therapist can assist with performing various rehabilitation exercises to promote healing.

How Long is Rehabilitation for Total Joint Replacement?

You will need to undergo rehabilitation for as long as it is necessary after undergoing the total joint replacement procedure. Depending on the joint that was replaced, rehabilitation can last for several months before your joint heals to a satisfactory extent. Do not try to stop undergoing physical therapy too soon, as it will only cause problems. Rehabilitation can also prevent complications from arising after surgery. For example, when a therapist is exercising your joint, it increases blood flow and can reduce the risk of a blood clot forming.

For more information on total joint rehab, contact a professional near you.