Look Out for These Signs: Your Parent May Require Joint Replacement Surgery

Joint pain and knee problems have become quite common in India. Ageing is something we all wish for, but sometimes our bodies need a little help along the way. If you have elderly parents, you might have noticed them struggling with joint pain or mobility issues. In some cases, joint replacement surgery can be a life-changing solution.

According to the orthopaedics department at AIIMS, about 250,000 people have knee replacement surgeries every year. This is a lot more than the number of surgeries performed just five years ago, showing how big the issue has become. Knee issues affect around 150 million people who are 50 years old and older.

These problems are often caused by things like being overweight, not being physically active, lifestyle diseases, arthritis, and other inflammatory illnesses. So, it's important to pay attention to your knee health and take steps to prevent these issues.

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Understanding Joint Replacement Surgery

Joint replacement surgery is a medical procedure in which a damaged joint is replaced with an artificial one. It's most commonly done for hips and knees, although other joints like shoulders and elbows can be replaced as well. This surgery can alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance the overall quality of life for people suffering from severe joint issues.

Signs that Your Parent May Need Joint Replacement Surgery

• Chronic Joint Pain: If your parent experiences persistent and severe joint pain, it's a strong indicator that something is wrong. This pain can affect their ability to walk, stand, and perform daily activities. Chronic pain often occurs in the hips and knees, and if it's not responding to non-surgical treatments, it might be time to consider joint replacement.
• Limited Mobility: Is your parent finding it increasingly difficult to move around? Joint issues can severely limit their mobility, making it challenging to climb stairs, get in and out of chairs, or even perform basic self-care tasks. If their mobility is compromised, joint replacement surgery can help them regain their independence.
• Stiffness and Swelling: Joint stiffness and swelling are common symptoms of joint problems. These symptoms can be especially noticeable after periods of inactivity, like getting up in the morning. If your parent experiences these issues regularly, it's a clear sign that their joints are not functioning as they should.
• Pain During Rest: Joint pain should not be present when your parent is at rest. If they are experiencing pain even when not engaged in physical activity, it's a sign that the joint has significant problems. Joint replacement can provide relief from this constant discomfort.
• Reduced Quality of Life: When your parent's joint pain starts to affect their overall quality of life, it's time to consider joint replacement. If they can't enjoy their hobbies, spend time with family, or engage in social activities due to pain and mobility issues, the surgery can be a game-changer.
• Ineffectiveness of Non-Surgical Treatments: Before opting for joint replacement, doctors typically recommend non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, pain medication, and lifestyle changes. If these methods have been tried without success and your parent's condition is not improving, it may be time to explore surgical options.

The Benefits of Joint Replacement Surgery

• Pain Relief: The primary goal of joint replacement is to alleviate pain. Once the artificial joint is in place, the pain and discomfort that your parent was experiencing should significantly diminish.
• Improved Mobility: Joint replacement can greatly improve your parent's ability to move and perform daily activities. They'll be able to enjoy a more active and independent lifestyle.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: With reduced pain and increased mobility, your parent can get back to doing the things they love, spending time with family, and regaining their overall quality of life.
• Long-Term Solution: Joint replacement is often a long-term solution. Artificial joints are designed to last for many years, allowing your parent to enjoy the benefits of the surgery for a significant portion of their life.
• Lower Risk of Complications: Modern surgical techniques have reduced the risks associated with joint replacement. It's generally a safe and well-established procedure.

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Tips for Joint Replacement Surgery

• Choosing the Right Surgeon: Seek out a skilled orthopaedic surgeon who specialises in joint replacement, properly research their qualifications, and ask for recommendations.
• Pre-Surgery Assessment: Your parent will undergo a thorough pre-surgery evaluation to ensure they are in the best possible health for the procedure. This may include tests, assessments, and discussions with the medical team.
• Rehabilitation Planning: Understand the rehabilitation process post-surgery. Physical therapy and exercises will be crucial for a successful recovery.
• Support System: Ensure that your parent has a strong support system in place, including family, friends, and carers, to assist with their recovery and daily needs.

Joint replacement surgery can be a life-changing solution for your parent if they are struggling with chronic joint pain and mobility issues. Recognising the signs and seeking expert medical advice is the first step towards improving their quality of life. While the decision to undergo surgery is not to be taken lightly, the benefits can be immense, providing pain relief and a return to a more active and fulfilling lifestyle. Collaborate with healthcare professionals to make informed choices about your parent's health and well-being and help them enjoy their golden years to the fullest.

About the Author: Dr. Sinukumar Bhaskaran is a Consultant in Orthopaedics, Manipal Hospitals, Pune- Baner. All views/opinions expressed in the article are of the author.