Answers to 3 Common Questions About Joint Surgery

When knee pain never seems to end – or steadily gets worse – an orthopedic specialist can answer your questions and provide options for stopping that discomfort.

“Joint replacement can be a great option for patients who have seen quality of life go down,” said orthopedic specialist Ben Walters, DO, Avera Orthopedics in Sioux Falls. “Surgery is an option; the patient is the one who decides if it’s the best one.”

Is Surgery Right for Me?

If you’re having pain every day and it’s stopping you from doing things, then surgery may be a good plan. Exercise, physical therapy, medication and injections are all things you can try before surgery.

Your orthopedic provider will create a treatment plan based on your specific pain.

How Soon Can I Have it?

Once you decide on surgery it could take one to two months to schedule. You may also be asked to do some work before surgery. Here are some things to consider:

• Your orthopedic provider will give you pre-surgery exercises and prep you for the procedure.
• Losing weight might be a part of your preparation.
• You will most often go home the day you have your procedure.

What’s the Timeline for Joint Replacement Healing?

The timeline for recovery starts moving immediately and takes about six weeks:

• Surgery day: You’ll be walking with assistance. You might go home, too.
• Day after: You’ll start physical therapy at home.
• Following weeks: Some help for balance to avoid falls, but improvements are steady.

Create a support system to help during this time. Some steps to consider include:

• Find family and friends who can help with errands, meals or driving.
• Learn how Avera@Home physical therapy, daily living activities and medication aid can help you.
• Secure time off work to recover.

“Ask us when you don't understand,” Walters added. “Be patient and positive.”

Take the Next Step

Learn more about our orthopedic services and find your nearest location to schedule an appointment today.