Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, is a procedure where a damaged joint is replaced with an artificial joint, often made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. It is most commonly performed on the hip, knee, shoulder, and elbow joints. The goal is to restore joint function, reduce pain, and improve mobility when other treatments have failed to provide relief.

When Should You Consider Joint Replacement Surgery?

Here are some key indicators that joint replacement surgery may be the right option for you:

Chronic Pain that Doesn’t Improve with Conservative Treatments

If you’ve tried multiple non-surgical treatments—such as physical therapy, medications, injections, and lifestyle modifications—without any long-term relief, joint replacement might be your next step. When pain continues to disrupt daily activities and rest, despite all efforts to manage it, surgical intervention becomes an option.

Difficulty Performing Daily Activities

Joint pain that interferes with simple tasks like walking, climbing stairs, or even getting out of bed may indicate severe joint damage. When mobility is significantly reduced, joint replacement surgery can restore function and independence.

Joint Stiffness and Swelling

Severe stiffness, inflammation, or swelling in the joint, especially after periods of inactivity (like sitting or sleeping), is often a sign of advanced arthritis or joint degeneration. When this affects your range of motion, making it difficult to bend or straighten your joints, surgery may be required to restore mobility.

Significant Joint Deformity

In cases of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, joints can become deformed due to wear-and-tear or autoimmune damage. Visible deformity, misalignment, or bowing in the joint area, particularly in the knees or hips, can be a strong indication for surgery.

Failed Previous Treatments

You may have tried cortisone injections, physical therapy, or even arthroscopic surgeries to repair damaged joints. If these treatments haven’t provided relief and the pain persists, it might be time to consult your orthopedic surgeon about a joint replacement.

Advanced Arthritis Diagnosis

Patients with advanced stages of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis may benefit from joint replacement. As cartilage wears down over time, bone rubs against bone, causing significant pain and limited mobility, which joint replacement surgery can correct.