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There are close to 305 joints in a healthy adult human body. Every movement is assisted by the coordinated motion of one or more joints. When a joint is damaged due to injury or disease it may need replacement.
Joint replacement surgery is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged or diseased joint with an artificial joint. It is a common surgery performed on people of all ages to relieve pain and improve joint function. Manipal Hospitals Ghaziabad has some of the best Orthopedeacians.
Indications for joint replacement
Joint replacement surgery is typically recommended for people who are experiencing severe joint pain, reduced mobility, and decreased quality of life due to various joint-related conditions, such as:
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes the cartilage in the joints to break down over time. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.
- Traumatic arthritis: Traumatic arthritis can develop after an injury to a joint, such as a fracture or dislocation.
- Avascular necrosis: Avascular necrosis is a condition that occurs when the blood supply to a bone is interrupted, leading to bone death. This can affect the joints and lead to joint collapse.
Joint Replacement Procedure
Joint replacement surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision over the joint and remove the damaged or diseased joint. The artificial joint is then implanted in the place of the damaged joint. The most common types of joint replacement surgeries are:
- Total Knee Replacement: Total knee replacement surgery is performed to replace the entire knee joint.
- Total Hip Replacement: Total hip replacement surgery is performed to replace the entire hip joint.
- Total Shoulder Replacement: Total shoulder replacement surgery is performed to replace the entire shoulder joint.
Recovery after Joint Replacement
Recovery after joint replacement surgery is a gradual process that typically takes several months. Most patients will spend a few days in the hospital after surgery for observation and pain management. Physical therapy will begin shortly after surgery to help patients regain range of motion and strength in the new joint. Patients will need to follow their doctor's instructions carefully during recovery. This may include taking medications to control pain and inflammation, using assistive devices such as crutches or a walker, and following a physical therapy program. Most patients make a full recovery from joint replacement and can return to their normal activities within a few months. However, it is important to note that everyone recovers differently, and some patients may take longer to fully recover.
Tips for a Successful Recovery
Here are some tips for a successful recovery after joint replacement procedure:
- Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
- Attend all physical therapy appointments.
- Get enough rest.
- Eat a healthy diet as advised by a dietician.
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.
- Monitor your pain and swelling.
- Contact your doctor if you have any concerns.
Joint replacement surgery can be a life-changing surgery for people who are experiencing severe joint pain and reduced mobility. If you are considering joint replacement surgery, be sure to talk to your doctor to discuss the risks and benefits of the surgery and to determine if it is the right option for you. Manipal Hospitals Ghaziabad is a multispecialty hospital with some of the best doctors to cater to all your medical needs.
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