Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common disorder caused by a loss of cartilage that affects the joints.

If you have had hip or knee replacement surgery, you are probably concerned about discomfort in the days following your surgery. It is important to understand that at some point after surgery, you will experience some level of pain – particularly with activity and physical therapy.

Hip and knee surgeons are not surprised when they find that someone who comes into the office for a problem had a hip or knee replacement done many years prior without any further follow up. Many people are unaware that they should follow up with their surgeon as part of the long-term care for joint replacements. Despite most hip and knee replacements now lasting for 15-20 years, it is important to follow up and not take your new joint for granted.

Knee and hip replacements are two of the most commonly performed elective operations. For the majority of patients, joint replacement surgery relieves pain and helps them to live fuller, more active lives.

Total hip replacement (also known as hip arthroplasty) is a common orthopaedic procedure and, as the population ages, it is expected to become even more common. Replacing the hip joint with an implant or "prosthesis" relieves pain and improves mobility so that you are able to resume your normal, everyday activities.

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

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.

Patients with advanced arthritis of the hip may be candidates for either traditional total hip replacement (arthroplasty) or hip resurfacing (hip resurfacing arthroplasty). Each of these procedures is a type of hip replacement, but there are important differences. Your orthopaedic surgeon will talk with you about the different procedures and which operation would be best for you.

One of the most common complaints after total joint replacement is difficulty sleeping. The most common cause of sleep disruption is pain. It has been reported that more than half of patients wake up with pain after joint replacement.

“Doctor, where will I go after surgery?” This is one of the most common questions asked by those planning for a hip or knee replacement surgery.