169 Riverside Drive, Binghamton, NY 13905
Phone: 607-321-2748
Knee and hip replacement is a
metal and plastic covering for unprotected, arthritic bone ends,
which replaces cartilage that has worn away over the years.
Replacement can eliminate pain and allow you to move easily. For
many people who have knee arthritis, it also straightens the
leg.
Who Should Have a Knee or Hip Replacement?
When arthritis knee or hip pain severely limits your ability to
walk, work or perform even simple activities, consider knee or hip
replacement.
Is There an Alternative to Replacement?
Knee or hip replacement is only recommended after careful
diagnosis of your joint problem. Arthroscopic or microscopic
surgery is not helpful once arthritis is advanced. Nor will
anti-inflammatory drugs or cortisone injections likely give you the
same long-term relief as either knee or hip replacement.
How Long is the Hospital Stay?
The average hospital stay for either knee or hip replacement is
3-5 days. If both knees require replacement, it's usually best to
do both at the same time. That way the total disability will be
only slightly longer than the operation for one knee and the
problem will be solved in the least amount of time. In some cases,
fixing just one knee or hip can save the other for two to three
years, if the arthritis is not too advanced. Each individual case
is different.
How Long is Recuperation?
Each person's recovery follows its own schedule. You may need an
assistive device for a few weeks after the operation. You can drive
a car in 2-4 weeks. Most people gradually increase in their
activities and can slow dance in 6-8 weeks, and play golf, doubles
tennis, shuffleboard, or bowl in 12 weeks. More active sports, such
as singles tennis and jogging, are not recommended.
What is the Success Rate?
The quality of life improves dramatically following successful
replacements, as most orthopedic experts consider it the best
method of handling arthritis in the knee or hip. Joint replacements
have literally put hundreds of thousands of disabled Americans back
on their feet and allowed them to enjoy their golden years.
For more information about a seminar at
Lourdes please call Lourdes Center for Orthopedic Care at
607-321-2748 and ask for Mary.
