Many people believe that the need for revision surgery after receiving a joint replacement is inevitable, and that it’s only a matter of time between the two procedures. While it can be difficult to determine the outcome years from today, there are preventive techniques you can practice in the meantime to help prevent revision surgery or prolong the need for it. Expert orthopaedic surgeons in your area share their top tips for preserving your new joint.
Reach out to Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay today to book an appointment for joint replacement or joint revision surgery near you.
Learn more > Can You Make Your Implant Last Longer? 6 Tips From Our Surgeons
How Long Does a Joint Replacement Last?
Modern hip and knee replacements are designed to provide long-term pain relief and improved mobility. Many implants can last 15 to 20 years or longer, although longevity varies based on factors such as activity level, weight, implant type, overall health, and how much stress is placed on the joint.
Revision surgery may eventually become necessary if an implant wears out, becomes loose, is damaged, or develops another complication. Taking care of your joint after surgery may help extend its lifespan.
5 Tips to Protect Your New Joint
1. Follow Your Orthopedic Surgeon’s Instructions
Your recovery plan is designed around your specific surgery and individual needs. Follow instructions regarding weight-bearing, physical therapy, medications, wound care, and when you can safely return to certain activities.
Pushing your recovery too quickly can interfere with healing and increase the risk of injury.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Maintaining a healthy weight is particularly important after knee or hip replacement surgery because these joints absorb significant forces during everyday activities.
A healthy weight can decrease stress on your artificial joint while also making it easier to remain active and maintain strength.
3. Stay Active With Low-Impact Exercise
What exercises are best after joint replacement? Low-impact activities such as walking, cycling, swimming, and appropriately supervised strength training can help maintain mobility and muscle strength without excessive impact on the replacement joint.
High-impact activities may place additional stress on an implant. Ask your orthopedic surgeon which activities are appropriate for your specific joint replacement.
4. Maintain Strength Around the Joint
Strong muscles help support and stabilize your new joint. Continue the exercises recommended by your physical therapist, particularly those targeting the muscles surrounding your hip or knee.
Even after formal physical therapy ends, maintaining strength and mobility should remain part of your long-term routine.
5. Don’t Ignore New or Worsening Symptoms
When should you see an orthopedic surgeon after joint replacement? Contact your orthopedic provider if you develop persistent or worsening pain, swelling, instability, reduced mobility, or a noticeable change in how your joint functions.
These symptoms do not automatically mean your replacement is failing. However, identifying a potential problem early can allow your orthopedic surgeon to determine whether treatment is necessary before the condition progresses.
Can Revision Joint Replacement Be Prevented?
Revision surgery cannot always be prevented. Implant wear, infection, fractures, loosening, and other complications can sometimes occur despite appropriate care.
However, patients can take meaningful steps to protect their investment in a new joint. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active with joint-friendly exercises, following medical recommendations, and attending follow-up appointments can all contribute to the long-term success of a joint replacement.
Read more > Revision Joint Surgery: What Happens When A Previous Replacement Wears Out
| When Is Revision Surgery Unavoidable?
Even with meticulous care after a joint replacement, a joint revision may still be necessary in cases involving severe infections, compromised tissue, or rare mechanical malfunctions. |
Schedule a Joint Replacement or Joint Revision at Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay
We’re the top choice for comprehensive knee replacement surgery near you. Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay proudly offers hip and knee replacements and shoulder replacements followed by guided recovery to avoid revision surgery. We also perform joint revision surgery should the need arise. Call (813) 684-BONE (2663) to book an appointment.
