Let’s face it: we’re all aging. One of the conditions that often comes with age is joint impairment, pain, stiffness, and sometimes loss of function in joints such as the knees. Sometimes, these conditions are brought on by a joint injury such as a fracture, severe sprain, or dislocation. If you’ve found that physical therapy and injections no longer provide relief, then perhaps it’s time to consider joint replacement.
Our team at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center are experts in replacing many of the joints that are affected by injury or aging. Joint replacement surgery helps reduce pain and restore normal anatomical function so that you can return to the pleasures and activities in life that matter most to you.
What is Joint Replacement Surgery?
Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to replace all or some of a joint. During this procedure, Dr. Nielsen will remove the damaged or worn parts of your joint and replace them with an artificial joint known as a prosthesis. Typically, your surgeon will suggest a total or partial joint replacement, depending on your case.
Total joint replacement surgery (total arthroplasty): All parts of your damaged joint will be replaced with a prosthetic joint.
Partial joint replacement surgery (partial arthroplasty): Only some parts of your joint will be replaced with a prosthetic joint.
We perform many joint replacement surgery options, including:
- Anatomic shoulder replacement
- Reverse shoulder replacement
- Elbow replacement
- Total knee replacement
- Partial knee replacement
- Radial head replacement
- Wrist replacement
- Finger joint (MCP, PIPJ, DIPJ) replacements
What Does Joint Replacement Surgery Treat?
Your healthcare provider may recommend joint replacement surgery if you are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms that have not improved following nonsurgical treatments, physical therapy, or medications. Some common symptoms that may be a sign you need an arthroplasty include:
- Joint pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased range of motion
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Instability
- Arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis)
- Bone fracture
What to Expect During Joint Replacement Surgery
Joint replacement is a well-established procedure designed to help relieve pain, restore joint function, and help you return to everyday activities. Understanding what to expect with your surgery can help you feel more prepared.
Preparation
Before surgery, you will have a thorough consultation with our orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Nielsen. This will include discussing your medical history and a physical exam. Further testing, such as X-rays or MRIs, blood work, EKG, and other assessments, may be required to ensure you are fit for surgery. Our team will inform you regarding any medications you should stop or adjust before surgery, as well as provide guidance on pre-surgical instructions.
Surgery
On the day of your procedure, our surgical team will welcome you and get you prepped. Most joint replacement surgeries are performed under general anesthesia, depending on the specific case. During surgery, the damaged or arthritic parts of your joint will be removed and replaced with a durable prosthetic implant. The technique used may vary based on the joint being treated and your anatomy.
Aftercare
After surgery, you will be moved to a recovery area where your vital signs will be monitored as you wake up from anesthesia. Most replacement surgeries are same-day outpatient procedures, so your recovery journey begins right after surgery and continues at home. Generally, it is encouraged to use your new joint shortly after the procedure. Temporary discomfort in the replaced joint may occur, which should resolve within a few months.
Exercise is a vital part of the recovery process. Your physical therapist at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center will assist you with specific exercises to help restore movement and strengthen the joint.
Contact Us Today
If you are experiencing uncomfortable joint symptoms or a healthcare professional has recommended you undergo joint replacement surgery, our team at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center can help. To learn more, please contact our Charlottesville, VA, practice today.
Joint Replacement Surgery FAQs
How long will my joint replacement last?
Will I need physical therapy after joint replacement surgery?
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Complimentary Movement Screening
Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center offers complimentary movement screenings to assess your movement, identify imbalances, and help prevent injuries. Whether you’re active, recovering, or want to move better, our expert phsycial therapists provide personalized recommendations for your long-term mobility and wellness.
Contact UsWhat Our Patients Say
Dr. Nielsen and his team are great! I’m relatively new to the Charlottesville area and have been very frustrated by the long wait times for medical appointments and then the brevity of those appointments once they finally arrive. Dr. Nielsen and his team are the opposite. They go above and beyond spending more than ample time with you, clearly explaining their diagnosis and answering any questions you may have. I highly recommend them.
So helpful!! They got me in quickly after a bad ER experience. Everyone is so nice and will explain things and set up a game plan.
We can’t recommend Dr. Nielsen and his team enough. They represent the best in medical care and kindness to others. They are truly excellent in providing healthcare services. With him, you will find a health partner, a supportive friend on your health journey, and continuous support in your pursuit of well-being.
