General information on joint replacementIt is important to have realistic expectations of joint replacement
surgery. - Replacement joints are not "miracle" joints. They
will not restore a joint to the function it had before the arthritis
began.
- Pain relief is the most dependable outcome of joint
replacement. When the pain is relieved, you also may get some function back,
but this is not the main goal and is less predictable.
- On average,
replacement joints have a limited life span (10 to 20 years).
- There
are certain activities (running, downhill skiing) you should not do after
surgery. The joint is meant to be used but not abused.
- Low-impact
aerobics, moderate hiking, bicycling, swimming, gardening (if you don't squat),
and normal housework usually are allowed.
- People who have had a
joint replacement must take antibiotics before dental work, certain tests, and
surgery to prevent infection in the artificial joint.
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