Joint Replacements

When would I need a joint replacement?

You may end up needing a joint replacement when a health condition or injury causes joint damage. For example, a traumatic injury may crush the joint, leaving no option other than getting a new joint.

However, arthritis is by far the top reason people get joint replacement surgery. Arthritis progressively damages the cartilage that covers bones, and eventually even erodes the bone beneath the cartilage.

As inflammation develops, other soft tissues in the joint also suffer damage. Ultimately, the damage becomes so extensive that a joint replacement is the best (and only) treatment.

With today’s advanced technology, surgeons can replace nearly any joint in your body. The most common joints needing a replacement include your knee, hip, and shoulder.

How is joint replacement surgery performed?

No matter which joint is damaged, the basic replacement procedure is the same. Your surgeon removes all of the damaged bone and cartilage. Then they restructure the bones to fit the prosthetic pieces.

Joint components consist of metal, ceramics, plastics, or a combination of materials. For example, the pieces that replace the ends of the bones are usually made of metal or ceramics. Plastic components go between the new joint pieces to replace cartilage.

What should I expect during physical therapy for joint replacements?

Physical therapy begins a day or two after your surgery. At this stage, your therapist helps you walk with supportive devices and puts you through gentle range-of-motion and strengthening exercises. 

In addition to strengthening the muscles that support the joint, these early exercises keep your blood moving, which supports healing and prevents blood clots.

Physical therapy helps you get used to the feel of the joint and regain your balance and body mechanics. As you have less pain and can move more, your physical therapy ramps up to include more intensive range-of-motion and strengthening exercises.

Your therapist also adds weight-bearing exercises and activity-specific rehabilitation. And they incorporate exercises that boost the skills you need to return to work or sports.

By the time your physical therapy ends in about 12 weeks, you should be ready to get back to your life with few limitations on activities.

If you need supportive physical therapy to recover from a joint replacement, call Elation Physical Therapy or book an appointment online today.

We offer physical therapy for ACL repairs, rotator cuff repairs,  joint replacements, and other orthopedic surgeries. We also treat neck and low back pain and more. Call to book your appointment today.

We are the best physical therapy practice located in Houston, Pearland, Cypress and Katy, Texas. We offer sports injury recovery, pelvic floor therapy, treat lower back pain, and focus on general orthopedic injuries to help your needs. Call us to book your appointment today.