Tips to Help Postpone Joint Replacement Surgery

Knee and hip replacement have become the most common forms of joint replacement surgery. Over the years, the number of people with osteoarthritis who have had joints replaced has increased dramatically, with most people having them at a younger age. According to reports from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), more than 800,000 Americans undergo hip or knee replacement surgery each year. The largest contributing factor for these surgeries is advanced arthritis. However other conditions like osteonecrosis (reduced blood supply to bone causing bone death and pain) and injuries (trauma from accidents or sports injuries) may lead to breakdown of the knee joint and result in the need for surgery.

Most people undergo hip or knee replacement between the ages of 50 and 80 years. Every surgical procedure carries its own set of risks and complications. In most cases, the average joint that is replaced only lasts up to 10-15 years. Having the procedure done at the age of 50 years means that there is good chance that a second procedure would have to be done when the person is older, which increases the risk for complications. The potential complications associated with the surgery include infection, bleeding, allergic reaction to the implanted joint, and a blood clot in leg (that can travel to lungs and causes pulmonary embolism).

Tips to Protect Joints and Put Off Surgery

Here are some simple tips that experts recommend to extend the life of your natural joints and postpone the need for replacement:

• Reduce body weight – Maintaining a healthy body weight is an important way to protect your joints. For every extra pound a person carries, he/she may exert about three pounds of additional pressure on knees and multiply the pressure on hips by six. For people who need a joint to be replaced, early weight loss can also help avoid complications from surgery. Exercises such as walking, swimming or riding a stationary bike along with a balanced diet can help you maintain a healthy weight..
• Protect your joints from injury – Generally, osteoarthritis is one of the main causes for joint replacement. As you grow older, it is important to protect your joints by taking measures to avoid slips and falls which can result in serious injuries. Poor posture and using wrong techniques for daily activities also add stress to the damaged joints. In addition, it is also necessary to use proper technique when lifting or carrying heavy objects.
• Non-surgical modalities – Taking anti-inflammatory medication such as aspirin, naprosyn, ibuprofen or naproxen can relieve both inflammation and pain. It is important to consult your physician before taking these drugs, especially if you are on any other medications. Physical therapy can also be an effective alternative to

knee replacement surgery.

• Take supplements – Taking supplements such as glucosamine, sulfate, omega fatty acids and chondroitin can help solve many problems related to arthritis and help postpone replacement surgery. These supplements contain anti-inflammatory properties and cartilage building power that slows natural breakdown of joints. They can also help to reduce stiffness, improve mobility and stimulate lubrication.

Surgery to replace your arthritic joints should be considered only as a last resort. Leading healthcare centers in the U.S. offer effective non-surgical options for musculoskeletal conditions. Treatment at a reliable center can help manage pain, improve mobility and enhance overall quality of life.

As a leading multi-specialty healthcare center in Brooklyn, New York City, HealthQuest offers quality care and sophisticated services. Our unique approach to patient care ensures fast return to a pain-free lifestyle.