Conditions That Could Lead to a Joint Replacement

Joint replacement is one of the most common surgical procedures among older Americans, with more than 4 million surgeries per year. Knee, hip, and shoulder replacements are all on the rise, and it’s not a surprise when you consider how many conditions can lead to chronic joint problems.

At Advanced Orthopaedics Associates, P.A., our outstanding team of experienced surgeons offers long-term solutions for joint pain, stiffness, and mobility challenges.

We understand how joint conditions can start small but then spread to the rest of the joint, leaving sufferers with debilitating symptoms that derail their daily lives. Joint replacement surgery can help you return to an active, full life.

Here are some conditions that could lead to this type of surgery.

Osteoarthritis

This degenerative joint disease breaks down protective cartilage, leading to painful bone-on-bone interaction. So, while osteoarthritis mainly affects the cartilage covering the bones, the damage can affect the entire joint without proper treatment. 

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is very different than osteoarthritis but both can badly damage joints. It’s an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system destroys healthy joint tissues, starting in the synovial membrane that lines the joints. This causes chronic inflammation and damage. Eventually, the disease can cause severe joint warping.

Joint Trauma

Accidents or sports-related injuries can cause joint trauma. While it might initially affect just one part of the joint, trauma changes the way the joint functions and can quickly lead to further damage if untreated.

Avascular Necrosis

Avascular necrosis occurs when reduced blood flow to the bone causes tissue death, leading to joint deterioration. The condition can spread and could lead to joint collapse if untreated. 

When to Consider Joint Replacement

Treatment becomes crucial when joint pain, swelling, or limited mobility prevents you from enjoying your daily activities. Although conservative strategies like weight loss, exercise, physical therapy, oral medications, or injections are often the first approach our doctors recommend, joint problems may progress.

If conservative measures no longer help, joint replacement surgery could be right for you.

Joint Replacement Consultations in Wichita, KS

Ready to move toward relief? Book your appointment with one of our renowned joint replacement surgeons by calling 316-631-1600 now.