If hip or knee pain is interfering with your daily activities, you may be wondering whether joint replacement surgery is the right next step. While hip and knee replacement can improve function and quality of life, deciding when to have surgery involves several considerations beyond the condition of the joint itself.
Dr. Gregory Raab, orthopedic surgeon at Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics who specializes in primary and revision hip and knee replacements, shares six characteristics that he believes contribute to a more successful joint replacement experience.
From knowing when to consider surgery to understanding the recovery process, these factors can help patients better understand what to consider when determining whether hip or knee replacement surgery may be right for them.
Watch: 6 Factors That Contribute to a Successful Joint Replacement
What should patients consider before undergoing hip or knee replacement surgery? In this video, Dr. Gregory Raab discusses six characteristics that can help contribute to a positive outcome after joint replacement, including timing, preparation, support, and recovery expectations.
Watch Dr. Raab explain what patients should know before considering surgery.
Knowing When the Time Is Right for Joint Replacement
One of the most important considerations when deciding whether to have hip or knee replacement surgery is timing.
Dr. Raab explains that patients typically try nonsurgical treatments before considering joint replacement. These may include physical therapy, medications, and injections. Although these treatments can initially provide relief, they may eventually become less effective, though it is different for everyone.
When persistent pain and stiffness begin to significantly limit daily activities and negatively affect quality of life, it may be time to discuss joint replacement with an orthopedic surgeon.
The decision depends on the patient’s symptoms, previous treatments, and the impact the joint condition has on everyday life.
Having Realistic Expectations About Hip and Knee Replacement
Hip and knee replacement surgery can significantly improve mobility, function, and quality of life, but it is important for patients to have realistic expectations about what an artificial joint can and cannot do.
According to Dr. Raab, while joint replacement can help patients return to a high level of activity, a replaced hip or knee may never feel exactly like a healthy, natural joint. Because the replacement consists of metal and plastic components, some patients may continue to notice differences in how their joint feels.
The goal of surgery is not necessarily to make the joint feel exactly as it did before arthritis or joint damage, but to improve function, reduce limitations, and help patients return to the activities they enjoy. Understanding these potential benefits and limitations before surgery can help patients feel more confident and prepared throughout the process.
Prioritizing Your Overall Health Before Surgery
Preparing for joint replacement involves more than addressing hip or knee pain. Dr. Raab emphasizes the importance of focusing on overall health before surgery.
Depending on the individual, this may include managing weight, improving diabetes management, focusing on mental health, and getting better sleep.
Although joint pain can make these areas more difficult to manage, addressing overall health before surgery can contribute to a more positive outcome.
Building a Strong Support System for Recovery
A strong support system can make an important difference throughout the joint replacement process.
Dr. Raab highlights the value of support from family, friends, and healthcare professionals. For patients managing other medical conditions, their primary care physician may also play an important role.
Trusting the orthopedic care team is another key consideration. From the surgeon and physician assistants to nurses and physical therapists, each member of the team helps support the patient’s care.
Having people to rely on throughout the process can help patients navigate the challenges of surgery and recovery.
Maintaining a Positive Mindset About Recovery
Joint replacement surgery and the recovery process can be challenging. Dr. Raab encourages patients to recognize that recovery takes effort while maintaining a positive outlook.
Support from family, friends, and the healthcare team can help patients work through challenges and stay focused on their goals.
Having a positive outlook and understanding that recovery takes time can help patients navigate the process.
Understanding That Every Joint Replacement Recovery Is Different
It is natural to compare your recovery with the experiences of friends, family members, or coworkers who have undergone hip or knee replacement surgery. However, Dr. Raab emphasizes that every patient follows an individual recovery timeline.
Some patients may reach certain milestones sooner than others. Comparing progress can lead to unnecessary frustration or disappointment when recovery does not happen at the same pace.
Instead, patients should focus on their own progress and celebrate small victories along the way. Recognizing individual improvements and allowing recovery to follow its own timeline can help patients maintain a positive perspective.
About Dr. Gregory Raab
Gregory Raab, MD, is an orthopedic surgeon at Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics specializing in primary and revision hip and knee replacements. He sees patients at the Midtown Nashville and Franklin locations.
Dr. Raab completed his orthopedic surgery residency at Penn State College of Medicine and a fellowship in total joint replacement at OrthoCarolina. He has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor every year since 2016.
Explore Your Hip and Knee Replacement Options
If hip or knee pain is affecting your daily activities and quality of life, an orthopedic evaluation can help you understand your options.
At Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics, Dr. Raab specializes in hip and knee replacement surgery, including primary and revision procedures. He can help patients explore their concerns and discuss whether joint replacement may be an appropriate option.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, contact Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics at the Midtown Nashville or Franklin location.
Author: Maria Martini
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