What does a joint replacement for arthritis involve?

In simple terms, a total joint replacement for arthritis involves replacing the damaged joint surfaces with artificial components. For shoulder and hip replacements, these consist of a ball with a stem as well as a socket. For knee replacements, the artificial components are specially-shaped metal plates which replace the degraded cartilage covering the ends of the bone, along with a medical-grade plastic disc that replaces the thick pad of cartilage cushioning the joint. In some cases, the patella may also be relined with artificial components.

Am I a candidate for a joint replacement for my arthritis?

If your arthritis is advanced but you are otherwise in good health, joint replacement may be an option. However, you should always consult with an experienced orthopedic specialist who can provide you with conservative treatment options and other minimally invasive approaches to try before resorting to surgery.

The best candidates for an arthritic joint replacement procedure include patients who:

Have arthritis that is severe

Are experiencing significant impact on their quality of life due to their symptoms

Have found conservative treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy to be ineffective

Are willing to actively participate in a rehabilitation program following surgery

However, some health problems, including joint-related issues, may make a joint replacement for arthritis less suitable for you.

Looking to learn more about joint replacement for arthritis?

Joint replacement is only recommended if other treatment options have not been effective at improving symptoms, and only if the patient meets certain criteria. If you are suffering from arthritis and want to learn more about joint replacement as a treatment option, the first step is to schedule a consultation with one of our fellowship-trained joint replacement specialists.