Joint Replacement

What is total joint replacement?

Joint replacement is one of the greatest orthopedic surgical advances of the last century. This procedure involves replacing a damaged or arthritic joint with an artificial one. The most common reason for performing a total joint replacement is to relieve the pain and disability caused by severe osteoarthritis. The problem results from a gradual break down of cartilage, occurring most often in the hips, spine, knees, toes and fingers.

What is a joint?

Areas of the body such as the knees, wrists, and hips can be severely affected by a number of conditions that limit range of motion and cause significant pain and discomfort.  A joint is formed by the ends of two or more bones that are connected by thick tissues. For example, the knee joint is formed by the lower leg bone (tibia and fibula) and the thighbone (femur). The bone ends of a joint are covered with a smooth layer called cartilage. Cartilage of the joints can become worn down by trauma and disease, ultimately having an effect on your way of life. Normal cartilage allows nearly frictionless and pain-free movement. When the cartilage is damaged or diseased by arthritis, joints become stiff and painful. The pain may be so severe, a person will avoid using the joint, weakening the muscles around the joint and making it even more difficult to move the joint. A physical examination, and possibly some laboratory tests and X-rays, will show the extent of damage to the joint.

Individualized Care

Our physicians offer a variety of treatment options, considering every alternative before joint replacement surgery. Each patient’s individual needs, from diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation, are considered to help the patient move toward an active, pain-free lifestyle.

The Goal

Joint replacement surgery will ease pain and restore motion to knees, hips and other joints damaged by disease, injury or age. Patient education and support begins at the time joint replacement surgery is first considered, continues through surgery and the recovery process at home.

Satisfaction


Our Orthopaedic Care Specialists our joint replacement surgeons have years of combined experience in joint replacement specialization. With this experience comes the care and attention you deserve. Our patients report very high levels of satisfaction as a result of their surgery and the care received by our physicians and support staff.

Our in-house joint replacement specialists include Dr. Richard Weiner, Dr. Steven Saslow, Dr. Andrew Schneider, Dr. Thomas Saylor.

Please Contact us at Orthopaedic Care Specialists for a consultation with one of our orthopaedic surgeons and joint replacement specialists at (561) 840-1090.