Joint pain is common, especially with age or injury. However, when pain in your knees or hips persists or worsens over time, it may be time to consider surgery. Here are five key signs it might be time for a joint replacement:
- Chronic joint pain – Pain that persists for months or years may be a sign the joint is deteriorated. Often, the pain intensifies with movement and offers little relief.
- Loss of mobility – A decreased range of motion or stiffness in the joint may indicate the joint is no longer functioning properly. You may struggle with normal movements such as bending, reaching or walking, and the joint might begin to feel “locked” or unstable.
- Non-surgical treatments no longer work – You’ve tried physical therapy, medications, injections and lifestyle changes without lasting relief.
- Reduced quality of life – If you find yourself avoiding activities you once enjoyed because of joint pain, you may want to consider a joint replacement. Joint pain should not severely affect your sleep, mood, work or social life.
- X-rays or scans show severe joint damage – Even if your joint pain is tolerable, structural damage can indicate a need for surgery.
Joint replacement isn’t typically the first treatment option, but when symptoms severely affect your quality of life and conservative therapies no longer provide relief, it can be an effective solution. Joint replacements are now commonly performed as outpatient procedures, allowing most patients to return home the same day.
Want to find out if a joint replacement is right for you? Orthopedic Surgeon J.D. Stephens currently sees patients in both Batesville and Brookville. For an appointment, call 812.933.3765.