Total joint replacements are usually performed on joints with advanced osteoarthritis.
In a normal joint, cartilage and synovial fluid help cushion a joint to allow for smooth gliding as you move. As arthritis sets in, the cartilage starts to thin, and the volume of joint fluid decreases, which leads to the bones being closer together. This causes friction during movement, leading to the stiffness and pain associated with arthritis.
In early stages, most patients can significantly improve their pain and function with PT and/or medications or injections from their MDs. For some patients, osteoarthritis can continue to progress to a point where their quality of life is limited despite treatment in PT.
Modern medicine has advanced to the point where surgeons can replace the joint with metal and plastic components. While this is most commonly done for shoulder, hip, and knee joints; progress is being made towards replacing other joints in the body as well.
So why do PT if the surgeon is going to fix your arthritis?
Lots of reasons!
There is very good research that doing ‘pre-hab’ before your surgery can help decrease pain while you wait for surgery.
There is also good evidence that minimizing weakness and maximizing range of motion before surgery can help make your recovery faster and easier.
On top of that, while the surgeon has fixed the arthritis in your joint, patients often have residual stiffness and weakness after surgery. This is due to the fact that your muscles haven’t been exercised through a full range, and they also get stiff and weak. Working with PT can help maximize the effectiveness of your new joint and help you get back to doing things you enjoy.
Our skilled therapists have years of experience dealing with these specific surgeries; including the multiple different approaches and hardware options. We would love to help design a custom treatment plan to get you back to doing the things you love!
Call the office today to schedule (410) 747-8571
