Total hip and knee replacement surgeries are effective at easing the pain and dysfunction of arthritis which can limit a person’s ability to work and to enjoy leisure activities. Doing simple daily activities like going up and down stairs or putting on socks and shoes become difficult. Research has shown the benefits of total joint replacement surgery include not only resuming daily activities, but also improved quality of life and overall health with fewer days missed from work.

This animation explains total hip replacement, a surgical procedure in which parts of an arthritic or damaged hip joint are removed and replaced with a metal, plastic or ceramic device called a prosthesis.

Whether you have just begun exploring treatment options or have already decided to undergo hip replacement surgery, this information will help you understand the benefits and limitations of total hip replacement.

Total joint replacement is a surgical procedure in which parts of an arthritic or damaged joint are removed and replaced with a metal, plastic, or ceramic device called a prosthesis. The prosthesis is designed to replicate the movement of a normal, healthy joint.

Although shoulder joint replacement is less common than knee or hip replacement, it is just as successful in relieving joint pain.

When non-surgical treatments for knee arthritis fail, you and your doctor may consider surgery. Learn about which surgical options are optimal for treating osteoarthritis in your knee.

Total knee replacement is one of the most successful procedures in all of medicine. In the vast majority of cases, it enables people to live richer, more active lives free of chronic knee pain. Over time, however, a knee replacement may fail for a variety of reasons. When this occurs, your knee can become painful and swollen. It may also feel stiff or unstable, making it difficult to perform your everyday activities.

Total hip and total knee replacements have improved the quality of life for millions of people worldwide by relieving pain and restoring function and motion caused by arthritis and other joint conditions. People with successful joint replacements are able to stand, walk, rest and participate in recreational activities with little pain. While some people would be satisfied if they achieve these basic goals, others will expect to do more like participating in physically demanding sports and hobbies.

Your overall health is important and can have a major impact on how well you do after hip or knee replacement surgery. It is important to discuss your health with your physician so they can help you prepare in the time leading up to surgery. Your surgeon will want to know your health history, surgical history, medicines you are taking, allergies you may have, family history and social activities. You will also likely have a discussion about optimizing your health before surgery.

When you’ve made the decision to have joint replacement surgery, use these resources to supplement discussions with your surgeon.