Living with ongoing hip or knee pain can affect your quality of life. If you have tried nonsurgical treatments and they haven't helped, consider getting a total hip replacement (THR) or total knee replacement (TKR). These surgeries focus on reducing pain, helping you move better, and improving your overall well-being. It's important to understand the details of each procedure so you can make good choices about your joint health.
What to Expect from Total Hip Replacement
Before a THR surgery, you will receive general anesthesia to keep you asleep and comfortable during the whole procedure. The surgeon then cuts into your hip and takes out the damaged bone and cartilage. After that, they put in the new hip components. These artificial parts are placed carefully to restore the natural movement of your hip joint.
After the surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery room. Your medical team will make sure you feel comfortable during the early recovery period. As you heal, you will slowly regain movement in your new hip. Use physical therapy techniques to strengthen the muscles around your hip and restore your range of motion.
Benefits of Opting for a Hip Replacement
- Pain Relief: The surgery reduces long-term hip pain, which makes you more comfortable.
- Enhanced Mobility: Total hip replacement restores better movement, helping you do daily tasks like walking, climbing stairs, and getting dressed.
- Improved Quality of Life: With less pain and better movement, many people notice a better quality of life. They can join in social activities, pursue hobbies, and be more active.
What to Expect from Total Knee Replacement
Like with THR, total knee replacement surgery begins with you receiving general anesthesia. Next, the surgeon makes a cut on your knee to see the damaged joint surfaces, then uses careful surgical techniques to take out the damaged cartilage and bone. Once done, they’ll place a new artificial joint in your knee and ensure it’s aligned and secured using special tools. The new pieces are made to work together.
After the surgery, you will be watched closely while you wake up from anesthesia. Your healthcare team will give you pain medication to help keep you comfortable. You will start to regain mobility and begin your rehabilitation journey.
Benefits of Opting for a Knee Replacement
- Reduced Knee Pain: The surgery helps to ease chronic knee pain, making you more comfortable and mobile.
- Improved Joint Function: The new joint allows for smoother movements. This makes walking, standing, and climbing stairs much easier.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: With less pain and better mobility, many people see a big improvement in their quality of life. They can enjoy social outings, hobbies, and feel happier with their lifestyle.
THR and TKR: Which is Best for You?
When deciding between total hip replacement and total knee replacement, first consider the severity of your joint damage and personal lifestyle objectives. THR surgery is often recommended for individuals experiencing severe hip joint deterioration that impacts daily activities such as walking or climbing stairs. On the other hand, patients with advanced knee arthritis that restricts movement and diminishes quality of life might find better success with TKR surgery.
Other factors, such as age, overall health status, activity level, and specific joint condition are also crucial in determining the most suitable surgical intervention. Healthcare providers conduct thorough evaluations to tailor treatment plans that cater to each patient's unique circumstances and aspirations for post-operative outcomes.
Dr. Dan Albright, MD
Unsure whether you need a total hip replacement or total knee replacement? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Dan Albright, an orthopedic surgeon in Raleigh, NC. He will work with you to determine an optimal treatment plan so you may experience the quality of life improvement you deserve. Give him a call today at 919-863-6808.
